Trends in the adhesives market • Home of the future • Innovative renovation projects

IN THIS ISSUE: Revolutionary drywall and ceiling equipment

VOL 12.6 SEPTEMBER 2011 R38 incl. VAT

WINNER: SAPOA Property

Publication of the year

2010

As a local supply company in the construction industry in South Africa, Construction Warehouse understands the everyday challenges to complete projects in time and in budget. Making it their business to source and supply leading world class brands in various product categories, they offer proven solutions to some of the local problems.

Construction Warehouse is committed to supply some of the best equipment and materials available in the market. All equipment is backed up with a 12-month guarantee and full after sales service.

Their goal is to offer excellent service and customer satisfaction, making sure that each customer benefits from their products and gets great value for money.

Read more about Construction Warehouse on page 74.

ContentsVolume 12 • Number 6 • 2011

RegulaRs

|| SHOPFRONT9 Stands win decorating awards

|| CONCEPTS & VISIONS12 2012 Olympic Games in London

|| GREEN DESIGN14 SA’s first green star five-star rating

|| TECH SaVVy102 Face bricks for affordable housing

|| aRCHITECTIVES105 Glazed chemistry building

FeaTuRes

|| WINDOWS & GLaZING16 Regulations and standards

20 What you need to know about curtain walling

24 Windows generating power

|| STEEL30 Light-steel frame building in SA

40 Use steel as a creative tool

|| INTERIOR & DECORaTIVE54 From decorative trends to new materials

and faux finishes

|| EXTERIOR FINISHES86 Architecture and exterior finishes

9086

M U LT I P L E AWA R D W I N N I N G P U B L I C AT I O N

TRade CommenT

Trends in the adhesives market • Home of the Future • Innovative renovation projects

IN THIS ISSUE: Revolutionary drywall and ceiling equipment

VOL 12.6 SEPTEMBER 2011 R38 incl. VAT

on The CoveR

The race to keep up with trends has created a need among construction companies to improve building methods. This has resulted in a shift in the industry to move away from using traditional methods and created a gap in the market.

The industry has to meet designer’s needs while their creations become more complex to create. This is even more difficult as completion time and budgets are reduced with the focus on accuracy and precision. Construction Warehouse was established in 2009 out of the rising demand from the construction industry to evolve.

The market expects companies to include products in their range based on reducing the cost of manufacturing, improving output time and delivering exceptional quality. To do this, Construction Warehouse aligned with German manufacturers to bring innovative technology and superior quality to the local market.

Construction Warehouse is committed to providing a solution that will benefit every construction site, from major commercial projects to residential homes. Each project will benefit from using our products, personal commitment and involvement, that makes the difference.

The three sectorswhare you will have options to choose products from is Health and Safety, projection plastering for internal and external walls as well as ceilings, and drywall cutting and skimming equipment.

In this issue of Walls and Roofs the drywall sector is discussed with specific focus on the benefits it will bring to the contractor. The PFT Boardmaster and PFT Powercoat combination is discussed which offers a complete solution to constructing and finishing walls and ceilings.

I trust that you will find this information interesting and refreshing since the industry faces various challenges associated with drywalls and ceilings.

Riaan AlbertsConstruction Warehouse

vol 12.6

PUBLIshER:Media in Africa (Pty) Ltdwww.mediainafrica.co.za

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ThE WALLs & ROOfs TEAM:Editor: Marlene van Rooyen – 083 327 3746

marlene@mediainafrica.co.zaAssistant Business Unit Manager: Alida Edwards – 082 325 6617

alida@mediainafrica.co.zaSenior Key Accounts Consultant: Shayne Lessing – 082 945 5030

shayne@mediainafrica.co.zaFounder: Schalk Burger (1943 – 2006)

Senior Journalist: Theresa van Tonder – 082 325 0332theresa@mediainafrica.co.za

Journalist: Nichelle Lemmer – 072 209 2040nichelle@mediainafrica.co.za

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Publishing Manager: Liezel van der MerweFinancial Director: Fanie Venter

Accountant: Gerda BezuidenhoutDesign & Layout: Ilze Janse van Rensburg

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Reproduction & Printing: Business Print Centre

WALLs & ROOfs focusses on the aesthetics of walls and roofs and

technicalities pertaining to the aesthetics. Readers are welcome to contact

us for any information. WALLs & ROOfs is published six weekly by

Media in Africa (Pty) Ltd. The views expressed by contributors are not

necessarily those of the editor or publisher. We accept no responsibility

for the accuracy of information published.

Celebrating Sa’S firSt green Star five-Star ratingThe R130 million, 7000m2 Aurecon office building in Century City in Cape Town, is the first South African building to be awarded

a five-star Green Star office design v1 rating by the GBCSA. Financed by Nedbank and developed by the Rabie Property Group, the new building carries several state of the art technologies to make it as efficient as possible from energy management systems to high performance glazing and brand new air conditioning technology. One of the more interesting challenges on this building was the lighting: how to limit the use of artificial light by using sunlight, without adding to the heating of the building. Another challenge was keeping costs down and designing the building to stay within the confines of a commercial budget. Read more about this interesting project in our Green Design section on page 14. WindoWS that generate poWerI love the interesting articles on solutions we come up with in every issue for our readers: something that stretches the mind and imagination. In this issue, the article on windows generating power on page 24 is one that fits the bill 100%! The Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) is working on a new technology that is a photovoltaic cell based on organic molecules. With the new technology, the transparent film is applied to windows, giving both a highly visible light transparency and much better efficiency than previous versions have been able to attain. It is certainly a technology that can be widely used and if applied correctly, with minimal disruption to work as a retrofit product. Read more on page 20. USe of lSfb in SaThough LSFB is widely used in other countries, it has yet to gain the popularity locally as it carries overseas. That having been said, there are very interesting projects utilising this building type and it is gaining popularity daily. One such project is the 27 four storey buildings that was recently completed for the 10th All Africa Games in Mozambique. The biggest challenge on this 100 000m2 project appears to have been the extremely tight deadlines, but using the cold form steel (CFS) framing method as the structural system on the project reduced installation time.Read more about this project on page 40 and on how to use LSFB on pages 46. Marlene van Rooyen

InsIghTs FRom The edIToR

WINNER: SaPOa Property Publication of the year. fINALIsT: PICa awards 2010

Get the latest PRODUCT & TRADE INfO

ONLINE fOR freewww.mediainafrica.co.za

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EcoStruxure is Schneider Electric’s comprehensive active energy management architecture portfolio that connects five domains of business expertise.

Power, data centres, process and machines, building control and physical security are all now within open and flexible technology architecture that delivers up to 30% savings in energy-efficiency.

Gys Snyman, vice-president of energy-efficiency at Schneider Electric South Africa, says: “Making intelligent energy management possible within buildings is what Schneider Electric does with thousands of customers worldwide. By connecting our expertise in energy management with data-driven metrics and analytics, we optimise business performance by reducing energy consumption and improving building operations. Schneider Electric helps organisations around the world to meet global environmental and energy challenges, resulting in smarter and more efficient, sustainable buildings.”

Buildings are the largest consumers of energy worldwide, accounting for 40% of global greenhouse gas emissions. According to a recent repost issued by Forrester Research, they foresee “a bright future for carbon and energy management software as it will enable companies, probably for the first time, to concretely facilitate and track their sustainability performance”.

Enterprise-wide energy saving of up to 30% is achievable. The problem lies with most building owners and operators who are not equipped with the tools to effectively manage and analyse energy usage in their facilities.

As part of Schneider Electric’s EcoStruxure architecture, the Andover Continuum building management system integration with IIBM is designed to overcome these challenges. Information is shared and energy consumption is optimally managed in buildings by monitoring and controlling building systems and devices, including video surveillance, utility meters, physical security, heating, ventilation and air-conditioning (HVAC), lighting, data centres and power generation equipment.

“IBM is all about taking large amounts of data and turning it into smart, actionable information,” says David Bartlett, vice-president of IBM Smarter Buildings. “This joint solution gives building owners and operators the ability to analyse data by function, so they can improve operations and maintain peak building performance over time, which is a key element to create smarter buildings.”

IIBM will integrate with the EcoStruxure architecture, using energy analytics to identify sources of energy waste in buildings due to inefficient equipment operations. Energy waste can now be attributed to specific building assets. The complementary technologies provide energy intelligence with automated fault detection and diagnostics to continuously identify improvement in energy consumption.

Schneider Electric’s EcoStruxure architecture leverages IBM Maximo Asset Management software to increase building systems’ reliability and make building maintenance and repairs more cost-effective.

For the first time, building owners and operators have a consolidated view of operations and management information to continually optimise energy-efficiency and deliver high performing buildings.

An innovative energy management dashboard provides constant visibility of the energy health of a building, highlighting equipment that is wasting energy so that corrective remedial or preventative maintenance can be performed.

The availability of the Schneider Electric Andover Continuum integration with the IBM Intelligent Building Management solution builds on an alliance formed in 2005 between Schneider Electric and IBM.

The alliance began when Schneider Electric was selected as a key data centre and physical infrastructure provider to IBM’s Scalable Modular Data Centre (SMDC), and leverages Schneider Electric’s global leadership in energy management and IBM’s world-class service and integration capabilities to help organisations realise environmental responsibility goals through active energy management practices.

For more information about Schneider Electric’s EcoStruxure approach for intelligent energy management solutions, visit www.schneider-electric.com/Ecostruxure.

Schneider ElectricTel: 011 254 6400E-mail: isabel.mwale@za.schneider-electric.comWebsite: www.schneider-electric.co.za

ARChITECTURE delivers the next step in INTELLIGENT BUILDING managementSchneider Electric South Africa, a global specialist in energy management, recently announced that its EcoStruxure solution architecture will integrate with IBM’s Intelligent Building Management Solution (IIBM)

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ARCELOR MITTAL

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Through the looking glassWritten by Nichelle Lemmer

Designers of the new Sandton City expansion project took the commission to create a platform for shops to the next level. An extravagant dome with a double-glazed structural curtain wall, creating the new Protea Court, will showcase new stores and shoppers alike to the rest of Sandton.

Protea Court is part of Sandton City’s redevelopment and expansion project, which involves interior refurbishments and 30 000m2 of newly developed

retail space. The first phase of the project, which will cost R1,77 billion,

is undertaken by Liberty Properties and Pareto. Sandton City’s entire retail space, including the extension, will total 143 690m2

on completion of this phase. This will take the complex, which includes the hotel and office component, to a massive 215 000m2. The extension is due to open early in November.

green deSign mixed With the lateSt teChnology trendSThe use of an environmentally-friendly climatic envelope roof will assist in creating a living expression of South Africa’s vibrant future. This is the first roof of its sort to be used in South Africa. The roof will incorporate the use of natural light to represent green design in a new fresh approach, which will combat climate change in the design of buildings. The brighter, bolder design of the dome will create a warm undertone that will blend and flow throughout the shopping centre.

The creation of the design is made possible by using a product called Texlon. It is made up of multiple layers of foil known as ethylene-tetra-fluoro-ethylene (ETFE), which is a modified polymer.

“Texlon is an innovative technology used worldwide, and will

be featured for the first time in South Africa at Sandton City,” notes architect Tia Kanakakis from MDS Architecture. “It was selected as a suitable roofing material as it is lightweight and an environmentally-friendly climatic envelope.”

According to Kanakakis, ETFE consists of pneumatic cushions restrained in aluminium extrusions, supported by a lightweight structure. “The cushions are inflated with low pressure air to provide insulation and resist winds.”

She says the material translates the dynamic design intent for the structure while providing a suitable lightweight material for use over the centre. “The ETFE material is unique because it does not degrade under ultraviolet light or atmospheric pollution,” Kanakakis points out. “The material doesn’t harden, become yellow or deteriorate. Furthermore, as the surface is very smooth and has anti-adhesive properties, the envelope self-cleanses in rain.”

Made by Vector Foiltec, a UK company, Texlon combines exceptional light transmission with high insulation. “Each layer can incorporate different types of solar shading, enabling the design to optimise the aesthetic and environmental performance of the building envelope,” she says.

According to Kanakakis, incorporating ETFE into the design of the court offered opportunities to control the amount of solar shading and to manipulate the visual transparency required of the roof design. “These properties, coupled with the ETFE’s very low levels of embodied energy and outstanding environmental characteristics, result in an ecologically benign roof enclosure for Protea Court.” Another advantage of Texlon is that the product is not a petrochemical derivative. “It is recyclable and many components are fabricated from recycled materials.”

Julie Hillary, general manager of the Sandton region at Liberty Properties, is of the opinion that the expansion of Sandton City is set to further strengthen the centre’s position as one of Africa’s leading retail icons because of both its exceptional retail offering and fresh, modern and bold design.

Full acknowledgement and thanks are given to Tia Kanakakis of MDS Architecture and Sandton City for the information used in this article.

The eco-friendly roof of Protea Court.

A sketch showing what the completed Protea Court will look like when it is finished.

The judges consisted of a panel of experts in interior design. Interior designer JP Beukes of One Point

Zero, Craig Jacobs, a trend expert and writer for Sunday Times, Laura Church, a TV producer, Dawid Moolman of Tuine en Tossels on KykNet, and design expert Andre Moolman were all on the panel.

beSt overall Stand The BOS Bar stand, designed by Nicholas de Klerk of Design and Display, walked away with the best overall stand prize. While doing the rounds, the judges were impressed by the sheer scale of the stand. The boldness and cheerfulness of the stand captured their undivided attention.

beSt Small Stand Design Team by Essential Life received the award for the best small stand. The judges thought that this stand left no room for doubt about what makes Design Team so successful. According to them, every aspect of the stand has been carefully considered and well thought through.

moSt innovative prodUCt If you didn’t visit the RAW Studios stand, you missed out on seeing the most innovative product at the show. RAW Studios received this award after the judges were extremely impressed by their products. According to them, each of the products on RAW Studios’ stand can be considered for an innovation award, from the Toasti heater to the flexible new range of office furniture. They decided to award not only one, but the whole portfolio of RAW products as winner of the most innovative product on show.

plaSCon ColoUr aWard 2011New Look Africa by Laurence Brick Creative Direction walked away with the Plascon

colour award. Wild, exuberant and crazy with colour, the New Look Africa stand stopped the judges in their tracks. Anne Roselt, Plascon’s colour manager, awarded the stand for the exceptional way in which it showcased fabrics and colour. “Everybody has to stop and smile and love the bright colours. The stand portrays optimism with the use of colour. It is bold, brave and breathtaking.”

beSt “green” prodUCt According to the judges, Thermocoustex by Frame Industrials sold the best “green” product at the show. The judges are of the opinion that their “green” product will give builders, designers and homeowners assurance that is both effective and eco-conscious. “This acoustic and thermal insulation blanket used in ceilings and cavity walls reduces noise and heat loss by 62%. The fibre is made of recycled plastic and even old garments,” said the judges.

moSt interaCtive Stand Furnspace 3D was worthy of receiving the most interactive stand award. The judges were of the opinion that Furnspace’s interior design software is a difficult product to showcase. “The company overcame this challenge as they still managed to fully engage the visitor,” the judges said.

deCorex Stand exCellenCe aWardS Twenty one exhibitors received Decorex stand excellence awards. To be selected from over 700 exhibitors take some doing. The judges based their decision on aspects such as first impression and the wow factor, the quality of merchandising and branding, customer-focus, lighting and the overall layout of the stand.

For more information, visit www.decorex.co.za, to which full acknowledgement and thanks are given.

stands WIN decorating awards To celebrate Decorex Joburg’s 18th birthday, the exhibitors put their best foot forward. The show attracted 53 500 visitors this year. Several prizes were awarded to stands that excelled in inventiveness and optimism. The judges spent hours to decide on the winners.

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Some anSWerS to valUed engineering:Building a village of more than 800 apartments in less than a year was always going to be a daunting task. It was made much more achievable once the development team specified light weight construction products materials and building solutions manufactured by Saint-Gobain. The 27 buildings in the All African Athletes Village outside Maputo were completed on time – and will provide a comfortable and welcoming home-away-from home for 6,500 athletes.

Saint-Gobain Gyproc supplied various gypsum board products for the internal cladding and lining of the apartments, including 245 000m2 of Gyproc RhinoBoard FireStop 15mm – a specialist gypsum board that offers a fire rating of up to 120 minutes as part of a specified solution. This was specified as the skeletal structure was built in Light Weight Steel Frame, and the Firestop Rhino Board retains fire in certain areas and prevents the spread of flames and gives occupants from 30- 120 minutes to vacate the building if necessary. Wet areas were clad using a total of 60 000 m2 of Gyproc Moisture Resistant Rhino Board 15mm, which is formulated to resist moisture combined with fire performances and acoustical performances.

The internal lightweight wall structures were insulated with 87 000 m2 of Saint-Gobain Isover Cavitybatt insulation, used in the core of the wall system, a glasswool insulation product that boosts the energy efficiency of the apartments, while keeping occupants comfortable in thermal and acoustical performance. The suspended floor /ceiling system was insulated with Isover Aerolite insulation and clad with Gyproc 15mm Firestop Rhino Board –this building solution offered acoustical and fire related

performances required for this type of building methodology. “One of the most significant time savings was offered by the use

of Gyproc’s M100 Projection Plaster machines, along with Gyproc’s RhinoLite Projection Plaster,” says Andre Schlunz, business development manager for Gyproc. “The M100 Projection Plaster machine operators skim plastered the interior walls and ceilings of the apartments at a rate of more than 450 m2 per machine per day. With 8 M100 machines on site, this meant that the construction of all the internal walls and ceilings including fitting insulation and plastering, took just 120 days for all the apartments in all 27 buildings.”

Saint-Gobain Weber supplied various products for the project, including 120 tons of tiling adhesive and grouting. Weber Plaskey and Key It preparation water proof compounds were used wet areas.

“Saint-Gobain was able to offer significant savings to Abbeycon, the sub contractor that installed the Gyproc Rhinoboard for walls, ceilings , insulation and application of Gyproc Projection Plaster”

Change in building methodology – light weight steel frame structures

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says Schlunz. “By planning mixed loading for the 11 000 tons (equating to 343 x 32 ton interlinks) of material that had to be transported from Gauteng to Maputo, we minimised transport costs and reduced the overall carbon footprint of the project. Continuous on-site supervision from our technical experts also ensured a minimum of construction glitches during the process, which helped Abbeycon keep to budget, while meeting the very demanding and non-negotiable project completion date.”

Saint-Gobain Construction ProductsTel: 011 345 5300Website: www.saint-gobain.comwww.autospec.com

QUiCk StatS:Project Scope

300,000m• 2 -Clad internal linings of the building envelope and internal walls and ceilings with Gyproc 15mm Firestop Rhino Board. 60,000m• 2 - Insulate suspended floors and ceiling system with Isover Aerolite insulation.87,000m• 2 -Insulate wall system with Isover Cavitybatt insulation. 300,000m• 2 -Apply Gyproc Rhinolite Projection Plaster to internal walls and ceiling. Time period 120 days.•

saint Gobain Construction Products and change in building methodology has created efficiencies in all respects. This is what was achieved:

Light Weight Steel Frame Construction –97,000m• 2 – 27 x 4 storey buildings in 7 months Insulation suspended floors ceilings and walls •

-147,000m2 in 120 days =1,225m2 per day Internal cladding walls and ceilings -300,000m• 2 in / 120 days =2,500m2 per day Projection Plaster combined with Projection Plaster •

Machines 300,000m3 in 120 days =2,500m2 per day Delivery of materials to Maputo - a reduction in transport •

due to mixed loading 344 x 32 ton trucks equates to 3.5 x 32 ton trucks per day. Ease and accurate material requirement – reduction in •

material waste Dry construction – gives immediate ability to apply •

gypsum plaster and then paint Products/ systems are certified and tested •

Saint -Gobain Construction Products- technical on site •

support for building compliance Energy efficiencies are automatic with this type of •

building methodology and in excess of SANS 204 requirements in South Africa Valued re - engineering has made substantial savings •

in all respects. Change in building methodology gives the ability for •

Architects, Structural Engineers and Quantity Surveyors the ability to manipulate the fire, acoustical, and thermal performances of the building with ease. Saint Gobain Construction Products - high performances •

building solutions

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the aQUatiCS CentreThe Aquatics Centre in London will be the venue for swimming, paralympic swimming, diving, synchronized swimming and the aquatics discipline of the modern penthathlon during the 2012 Olympic Games.

The construction began in 2008. This venue will be the gateway to the Olympic Park, with more than two-thirds of spectators expected to enter the Olympic Park over a vast bridge that runs over the top part of the venue.

Acclaimed international architect Zaha Hadid designed the structure. The venue is boasting with a spectacular wavelike roof that is 160m long and 80m wide, providing it with a longer span than Heathrow Terminal 5.

dUring the gameSThe majority of spectators will be seated in two temporary wings that will be taken down after the Games.

On completion it will have a 50m competition pool, a 25m competition diving pool, a 50m warm-up pool and a dry warm area for the divers. The water polo competition will be held next to the Aquatics Centre in the temporary Water Polo Arena, with competition and warm-up pools.

These two venues will be close to each other in one of the most compact areas of the Olympic Park. In order to make the best use of the space available, some of the back-of-house facilities, such as space for broadcasters, catering and security will be shared between the two venues so they run as efficiently as possible.

after the gameSThe venue will be transformed into a facility for the local community, clubs and schools, as well as elite swimmers. Although the two temporary wings will be removed, it will still be possible to increase the capacity for major competitions.

There will also be a crèche, family-friendly changing facilities and a café alongside a new public plaza in front of the building.

the StrUCtUreThe lift of the 160m long and 2800 ton heavy roof is considered to be one of the most complex engineering and construction challenges of the Olympic Park big build. The roof frame was built from steel that was fabricated in Newport and assembled on site.

2012 Olympic Games in London brings new concepts to life

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Olympic Delivery Authority (ODA) Chief Executive, David Higgins said: “The big lift is one of the toughest construction and engineering challenges in the Olympic Park. It is showcasing the world-class expertise delivering the venues and infrastructure for London 2012 and regenerating east-London for future generations.”

The London 2012 Organising Chairman, Sebastian Coe, says: “The Aquatics Centre is going to be a spectacular venue for the Olympic Games in 2012 and its iconic roof will be a fantastic addition to the east-London skyline. At Games time, I personally hope it will be the scene of further successes for Team Great Britain, but just as importantly I look forward to London at last having a state-of-the-art aquatics facility for elite and community use for decades to come. The progress has been impressive, but the long-term significance of this venue is something really quite special.”

raiSing the roofThis 160m long column-free and 80m wide roof is resting on two concrete supports at the northern end and a 28m long and 5m wide supporting wall at its southern end.

A huge 30m steel truss, which is weighing over 70 tons, has been lifted into place on top of the southern wall and has been connected to ten steel trusses, each made up of four sections each which with a total will-span up to 120m to the two northern supports.

As the full weight of the roof rests on its supports, it will slide approximately 20cm into its joints on the southern wall. The roof has been designed through wind-tunnel testing and computer modelling, to stretch, twist and contract in response to the effects of snow, wind and changing temperatures.

veloparkThis is one of four permanent venues in the Olympic Park. The Velodrome will provide a venue for the indoor track-cycling events at the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

The design was inspired by cycling. According to Hopkins Architects in the UK, the bike is an ingenious ergonomic object, honed by unrivalled efficiency. They wanted the same application of design creativity and engineering rigour that goes into the design and manufacturing of the bicycle to manifest itself in the building. They did not want to mimic the design of a bicycle,

but rather felt that they wanted to create a three-dimensional response to the functional requirements of the venue.

This venue contains 6 000 seats in both Olympic and Legacy modes and responds to both contexts in an appropriate manner with minimal transformation. The upper and lower seating tiers are split by the main public circulation concourse, which forms the main point of entry into the arena and allows spectators to maintain contact with the action on the track as the circulate around the building.

The concourse allows views both into and out of the building. This aspect also helps to visually separate the Western Red Cedar clad upper bowl from the ground floor back-of-house accommodation, which is largely hidden behind the landscaped earth beams that form a visual plinth at the east and west end of the building.

Work on the competition scheme began in May 2007, with the announcement of the result being made in August 2007. The work started on site on the 23 February 2009 and was completed ahead of programme and on budget on 13 January 2011.

“It will be nice when we turn op on race day for the first day of the competition at the Olympics,” said four-time Olympic Champion Chris Hoy.

A team of British sprint stars all aiming for success at next year’s Olympic Games has been given the chance to ride on it.

“Having been involved in a very small way in the early stages of the design process, it’s amazing to see the Veldrome finally completed,” said Hoy.

The London 2012 Velopark was a collaboration with Expedition Engineering, BDSP and Grand Associates.

Walls and Roofs would like to give thanks and acknowledgement to Heatherwick Studio’s for their contribution to this article.

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Century City building achieves sA’s first GREEN sTAR fIVE-sTAR RATINGAurecon’s new office building in Century City, Cape Town is the first building in South Africa to be awarded a five-star Green Star office design v1 rating by the Green Building Council of South Africa (GBCSA).

The Rabie Property Group developed the building at a cost of approximately R130 million. This 7 000m2 office block is also the first building in Cape Town and only

the fifth countrywide to achieve Green Star SA accreditation from the GBCSA. The other buildings all achieved four-star Green Star SA ratings.

This building will serve as the new regional offices for global engineering, management and specialist technical services group Aurecon, who was responsible for the design of all the engineering services on the project and also the Green Star SA rating application, with documentation assistance from PJCarew Consulting.

According to Colin Anderson, director of the Rabie Property Group, they were ecstatic with the achievement, which was “double amazing given that we had to complete the building within a normal commercial budget”. He further adds: “Our successes are due to the commitment, hard work and effort

put into this project by the entire team and we thank them all for their valued contributions.”

Albert Geldenhuys, Aurecon’s General Manager in South Africa, said: “Increasingly, it has become important to demonstrate that our own buildings and facilities have been built in a sustainable manner. The group is committed to ensuring that we design and execute sustainable and environmentally-responsible infrastructure projects. We have ensured that our teams include suitably trained and registered professionals, including environmentalists and Green Star SA Accredited Professionals.”

Jacques Kotzé, Aurecon’s head of Facilities and Procurement, concurs: “Our aim to achieve ‘greener’ building practices at our own facilities aligns with our global strategy to ‘continuously improve efficiency and effectiveness of our business operations’. Our culture of continuous improvement extends to our facilities and making these more sustainable and environmentally friendly, does not only result in a positive return on investment but also contributes to building our great brand.”

Bruce Kerswill, Executive Chairman of the GBCSA, announced the five-star Green Star SA office design rating and said: “The

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GBCSA is thrilled that South Africa has its first five-star certified building and that Cape Town has joined Johannesburg and Durban in boasting Green Star SA certified buildings. We wish to congratulate Aurecon and the Rabie Property Group on their commitment in achieving this and raising the bar for green building for the entire commercial property industry in SA. We look forward to hearing more detail on the building’s green initiatives at our annual convention in October this year.”

According to Anderson, the five-star rating had been achieved for the design of the building.

“However, as the building has been built to design, there is no reason stopping us from also applying for an As Built Green Star rating from the GBCSA. Only one other building in the country has so far achieved a Green Star rating in these two categories and this was the Nedbank Phase II building in Johannesburg, which achieved a four-star Green Star SA for office design and a four-star Green Star SA for As Built,” adds Anderson. Aurecon was responsible for the mechanical engineering and carried out specialist modelling for the Green Star SA submission for this project too.

In their quest for a Green Star SA rating, the Aurecon team and building owners took the Green Star SA criteria into account throughout the design and construction process. The categories include management, indoor environmental quality, energy, water, transport, materials, emissions, land use and ecology and innovation – buildings score points based on how many credits they achieve in each of these categories and ultimately may achieve a four-star, five-star or even a six-star Green star SA certification.

Nedbank Corporate Property Finance, who has a long-standing relationship with the Rabie Property Group, provided the finance for the development. Frank Berkely, managing executive of Nedbank Corporate Property Finance, said they are very proud to finance this important achievement. “For Nedbank, sustainability ultimately presents a means of achieving the delicate but essential balance between economic objectives, social development activities and environmental responsibility.”

The four-storey building, which has been constructed on a podium covering a naturally-ventilated semi-basement of covered parking, was designed by MaC Architects. Its orientation ensures maximum indirect sunlight and reduced east and west direct sunlight.

other green meaSUreS Undertaken inClUde:A state-of-the-art air-conditioning system with a full economy •

cycle to provide free cooling when outside conditions are favourable. A state-of-the-art building management system, which •

monitors and controls energy consumption.Grey-water irrigation and the harvesting of rainwater for the •

flushing of toilets.High-performance glazing on the windows to reduce glare •

and radiant heat. Innovative measures include the implementation of a “green •

lease”, believed to be the first of its kind in the country, in terms of which both the landlord and the tenant have undertaken to run the building as it was designed in terms of “green” building principles.

The professional team on the project included the Rabie Property Group (project managers), MaC Architects, Aurecon (civil, electrical, mechanical and structural engineering and environmental), Aurecon & PJ Carew Consulting (“green” consultants), Murray & Roberts (main contractor), Richard Abrahamse (land surveyor), Planning Partners (landscape architect) and Davis Langdon (quantity surveying).

For more information, visit www.gbcsa.org.za.

ChallengeS faCed:Keeping control of costs for Green Star items.•

Developing the Green Star application documentation •

and keeping to a tight timeframe of the submission.The lighting was a challenge, i.e. introducing natural light •

to the space. This was solved by an atrium, as well as a light well that had been included in the design of the building. This will ensure that the core of the building is penetrated by natural daylight, reducing the energy required for illumination.We tried to introduce lots of natural light, but this had •

to be done without the addition of any direct sunlight, which would create additional loading on the HVAC system. Another objective is to increase the amount of fresh air introduced into the building by the HVAC system, but this had to be balanced in order not to cause excessive heating or cooling of the fresh air. The system is also designed to bring in just fresh air if the outside temperature is suitable. An obvious challenge was designing the building •

to include the newer and more capital-intensive technologies and design modelling, however, still working within a commercial budget.

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Windows and glazing regulations and standards

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One must always ensure that the glass selected complies with the National Building Regulations. These regulations set out stringent safety standards that govern the installation of glass in buildings. Failure to comply with these regulations could have serious legal implications.

The National Building Regulations state that glazing material must provide an appropriate level of protection in the case of human impact. As an example,

safety glazing is required in doors and entrances, windows, batch enclosures, balustrades, shopfronts, stairways and other areas.

identifiCation of Safety glaSSIt is of the utmost importance that all safety-glazing materials must be permanently marked. The marking must be visible on each individual pane after glazing. If the panes are not marked, it means that the product is not safety glass.

Wired glass is not regarded as safety-glazing material, unless it conforms to SABS 1263.

Safety-glazing material mUSt be USed in the folloWing appliCationS:

Entrance doors or door sidelights.•

Windows with a sill height less than 500mm.•

Windows with a sill height of less than 800mm positioned •

where people are likely to move towards such windows.

Bath enclosures and shower cubicles.•

Balustrades (minimum height 1 000mm). •

Within 1 800mm of the pitch line of any stairway, ramp, landing •

or balcony.Any horizontal or sloped glazing tilted more than 15° from the •

vertical.Mirrors used as facing to cupboard doors less than 800mm •

above floor level, where there is no solid backing.

doorS and entranCeSAny pane of glass installed in any entrance door or door sidelight shall be glazed with safety-glazing material.

WindoWSEvery window that has a sill height less than 500mm must be glazed with safety-glazing material. Besides this, any window positioned where persons are likely, on normal traffic routes, to move towards the window, must either have a sill height not less than 800mm or it must be glazed with safety-glazing material.

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bath enCloSUreSAll glass that is used in any bath enclosure or shower cubicle will be glazed with safety-glazing material.

ShopfrontS All the glass used in any shopfront within 2 100mm from the floor must be glazed with safety-glazing materials.

balUStradeSAny glazing to balustrades has to be with safety-glazing material. The minimum height for balustrades is 1 000mm and 1 200mm around swimming pools.

When a balustrade is corning-off a drop in excess of 320mm, the balustrading rules as defined by AAAMSA apply.

StairSIt is required to have safety glass in any wall or balustrade to a stairway, ramp, landing or balcony within 1 800mm of the pitch line of such a stairway.

horizontal and Sloped glazingAny glass used in any horizontal or sloped glazing, including skylights and enclosures, which is tilted more than 15° from the vertical, must be safety glass.

mirror doorSAs soon as a mirror is used as a facing to a cupboard door less than 800mm above the floor level, and there is no solid backing, one should ensure that the mirror is made of safety-glazing material.

reCommended glazing thiCkneSSeS Internationally, annealed glass is controlled by building regulations, as to the thickness of glass relative to the size of a pane.

indUStry overvieW Dennis Phillips of Govenders Aluminium and Glass says: “The market has not had too many new trends lately. We have noted loss of the general availability of certain products and many glaziers actually have their own in-house solutions. Certain systems appear to gain ground in usage and this is most likely directly related to a good marketing strategy and a superior quality of products. Unfortunately some of these products are imports, and this has therefore impacted on its price as opposed to the locally available systems. The marketplace has clearly begun to see the value of a good system which follows the ‘Green’ trend and is slowly learning the ‘penny wise and pound foolish’ lesson.”

Martin Volker, marketing manager of McCoy’s Glass, says: “Green is certainly the buzzword in the glass industry at present. The realisation that ordinary glass, even highly reflective, provides poor insulation is starting to be taken seriously. Responsible designers/developers are turning more and more to either single-glazed or double-glazed low-emissivity (low-e) glass products to improve the thermal efficiency of their buildings. The introduction of low-e glass can significantly reduce heating costs in winter and cooling expenses in summer.”

Low-e glass is becoming more and more popular. The product has been available for some years, but unfortunately it’s fully imported. Nobody in South Africa has the technology to make low-e glass.

“Soft-coated low-e glass is becoming popular abroad, where the glass is processed and made into a sealed insulated glass unit, with the coating protected between the airspace. This may not be a viable option for this country due to pre-production coating damage. Most soft-coated low-e glass also has a limited shelf life. The pyrolytic hard-coated low-e glass products are more widely used here,” adds Volker.

SANS 204 will be operational from 1 March 2012. “SANS 204 deals with both the UV value and the solar heat

gain coefficient (SHGC) of the windows in a building. Low-e glass reduces the U value of glass and will assist in achieving the requirements of SANS 204. “One of the real ‘bugbears’ in the supply of high performance, high value glass products to large projects is the uneconomical usage of standard stock-sheet permutations. The problem is that in the past wastage of glass which cost R100 per square metre was easily absorbed into the building contract. However, the newer, highly functional glass products can cost R600 per square metre and upwards, but standard sizes are often ignored. Designers need to enquire what the standard glass sizes are before committing to window sizes. Our advice is to contact a glass processor at the early stage of building planning,” says Volker.

McCoy’s Glass recently completed the successful supply of Pilkington Eclipse Evergreen low-e laminated glass to Geustyn & Horak Aluminium for the Mall of the North rooflight project in Polokwane. Some 3 600m2 of glass was required for this contract. The company is also proud to be associated with Diri Aluminium for the supply of AGC Sunergy Neutral low-e laminated glass for the Eastgate project in Katherine Street, Sandton.

Walls & Roofs would like to give thanks and full acknowledgement to Martin Volker of McCoy’s Glass and Dennis Phillips of Govenders Aluminium, who contributed to this feature.

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NEW INNOVATIVE DEsIGN

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The new Glassflex GF Serene acoustic demountable and re-locatable partitioning system is ideal to create quiet office spaces within open-plan applications. According

to Aluglass, the Glassflex GF Serene range is quick and easy to install, remove and reinstall with modular glass elements and flexible frame components.

With this range, ceiling and floor-space insulation treatments are available and decorative treatment of the glass is possible. The acoustic doors, that compliment this new product, are available in a variety of real-wood veneers and other finishes.

The GF Serene range integrates directly with the Aluglass Varikust VK62 acoustic doors.

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The system can be up to 3m high in commercial applications, and framing systems can accommodate cable installations if it is required.

The GF Serene range integrates directly with the Aluglass Varikust VK62 acoustic doors. The two options that are available are GF Serene 35 – achieving 35dB and GF Serene 40 – managing 40dB.

The Aluglass VK62 doors offer sound insulation doors with an acoustic rating of 36dB. According to Aluglass, this door is easy to operate and has an effective sealing mechanism.

Aluglass BautechTel: 011 451 8400Fax: 011 609 8097E-mail: mailbox@aluglass.co.zaWebsite: www.aluglass.co.zawww.autospec.com

adveRToRIal

The Aluglass VK62 doors offer sound insulation doors with an acoustic rating of 36dB.

Quick and easy partitioning system

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WhaT You need To KnoW aBouT CuRTaIn WallIng

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hoW haS the proCeSS of CUrtain-Wall deSign and manUfaCtUring Changed over the laSt 20 yearS?Hubert E van Zandvoort, a structural engineer for SSI Engineers & Environmental Consultants says: “First of all, the wall types have changed. Not only do you get standard walls, but custom-built walls as well. The way in which curtain walls are erected have also changed. You will see many different ways of erecting a curtain wall nowadays. These include the stick system, unitize system, mullion and panel, large panel as well as window walls.”

Rodger Naidu, the CEO of Sheerline Aluminum, says: “The initial stick system was used to build curtain walling and flush glazing. Curtain walling progressed to manufactured-unitized curtain walling in the factory where more control can be implemented. Installation requires less scaffolding on site.”

hoW are arChiteCtS and deSignerS Challenging CUrtain-Wall manUfaCtUrerS and inStallerS With their deSignS?Van Zandvoort says: “The biggest issues arise from the detailing and the actual installation on site. Issues also arise between the building structure and the facade. You have to ask yourself, did the contractor leave enough space for the installation? When fixing the building structure, it does tend to cause problems when positioning the anchor bolts. This is specifically when the reinforcing is large, and obstructing the drill, to drill into the concrete.”

A curtain wall system is a specialized type of cladding typically used in the construction of commercial and institutional buildings. It utilizes glass, either transparent or spandrel or both, and vertical and horizontal mullions acting as structural members to transfer wind and gravity forces to the building structure. Walls&Roofs in Africa interviewed some industry experts regarding the new trends, challenges, failures and successes regarding curtain walling in South Africa.

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“The quality is produced by the contractor, in regards of the lining up of the building structure for the curtain walling system. There is only so much that a curtain wall can accommodate before adjustment pieces and redesign or major chopping by the main contractor will be put into place to adjust the alignment of the structure. This depends heavily on the quality of skills of the people used in different processes.”

Naidu says: “Compared to Dubai, South Africans are not really challenging curtain-wall manufacturers.”

Where are the trendS heading for pre-glazed or Unitized CUrtain WallS in the fUtUre?Naidu says: “Unitized systems are becoming more popular as problems can be addressed in the factory. The controlled environment leads to a better quality end-product and the curtain-wall erection time is reduced.”

CUrtain WallS SometimeS fail. What are the moSt Common CaUSeS and hoW Can they be prevented?Van Zandvoort says: “The most common problems that arise are water penetration, poor acoustic and thermal insulation, deterioration of expansion and sealant joints, and movement issues between the building facade and structure. These problems can generally be divided into some of the following categories:

Design errors and omission, for example an improper choice of materials and systems; materials without proven performance, for example insufficiently tested glass-coating technologies; deficient shop fabrication, for example failure to detect early and prevention by QA (quality assurance) and QC (quality controller); deficient field installation, improper or deterred maintenance, for example an underfunded maintenance budget, improper or no staff training; an oversight of commissioning design, for example the instruction manual and ordinary wear and tear, like failure of bottleneck materials and solutions.”

“I feel that these causes could be prevented if there were stricter adherence to the design standards and quality systems.”

Naidu says: “This happens because of the improper fabrication of curtain-walling systems. The wrong mullions are being used, water leakage occurs, incorrect glass or silicone is being used and the wrong gaskets are being used. One should keep to the manual when fabricating a curtain wall.”

hoW haS leed (leaderShip in energy and environmental deSign green bUilding rating) aS Well aS green Star rating inflUenCed thiS market?Van Zandvoort says: “The biggest problem is the fact that at the moment these rating tools are applied in a manner that does not

necessarily want to achieve sustainability, but is rather focusing on getting the points at the least amount of cost to the client and then ‘claiming’ to be a green building. I am not saying that this is bad, but I am just stating that this is not the right frame of mind. As an element there is enough potential in a curtain wall to contribute to making buildings more sustainable in the future.

Naidu says: “I can’t say there has been a huge influence on the market. There hasn’t been an increased demand in double-glazing.”

Where are the trendS heading in the fUtUre?Van Zandvoort says: “This all depends on the needs and requirements of the client and what the legislation will want to achieve. According to me, this will become the leading principle in high-rise buildings.”

Naidu says: “Trends for the future are heading towards tension structures and spider fittings, where the glass is supported by stainless steel or steel. This new trend is eliminating the need for aluminium in certain areas, and is more aesthetically pleasing.” However in South Africa there is a huge challenge – i.e. Urban Renewal – We see most of our city center’s with old buildings. The Sheerline Systems are designed to give a lift to any building new or old and can be modified to suit any project.

Walls & Roofs would like to give thanks and acknowledgement to Hubert E van Zandvoort of SSI Engineers & Environmental Consultants as well as Rodger Naidu, CEO of Sheerline Aluminum for their contribution to this article.

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Sash windows are normally associated with Georgian or Victorian style buildings, but are becoming increasingly popular in modern homes. The product is streamlined, elegant, easy to clean, and helps with ventilation in warm weather.

However, these benefits are hard to take advantage of when the windows are secured with fixed, conventional burglar guards. Trellidor manufactures a

solution in their Trellidor Clear Guard range that solves these restrictions.

“We produce a custom-made sash security screen in this range that matches the sash window, so you don’t lose any of the benefits of this window style,” says Nick Sacco, the business development manager at Trellidor.

Trellidor Clear Guard screens are fully framed in aluminium with a stainless steel mesh screen that allows clear views through the unit. The frame is secured into the wall, enhancing security and not damaging the sash window frame in any way. The frame can be powder-coated to match the home’s interior colour palette, making the security screens completely unobtrusive.

From the outside of the building one can’t see the Trellidor Clear Guard units, which has made them popular in upmarket housing estates. The units provide security without spoiling the outlook of a home. Each Trellidor Clear Guard sash window has two locking points, one in the middle to secure the bottom sash to the top one, and one at the bottom to lock the entire sash security screen. The top and bottom sashes can work independently of each other to allow for easy cleaning of the window glass and ventilation.

Apart from sash windows, this range can be tailored to fit almost any door or window style, including French doors and windows, hinged and sliding doors, casement, awning and sliding windows, and fixed panels for doors and windows.

trellidor Clear gUard:Is internationally tested for strength.•

Allows air to flow freely into a home.•

Is corrosion-resistant, even in coastal conditions.•

Assists with security without obscuring views.•

Is custom-made for any door or window style.•

Carry a Trellidor warranty.•

Trellidor Clear GuardTel: 031 508 0873E-mail: enquiries@trellidor.co.zaWebsite: www.trellidor.co.za

A sECURITy sOLUTION fOR sAsh WINDOWs

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The technology is a photovoltaic cell based on organic molecules. It harnesses the energy of infrared light while allowing visible light to pass through. When

coated onto a pane of standard window glass, it could provide power for lights and other devices. Taking advantage of existing window structures would lower installation costs.

According to Vladimir Bulović, a professor in electrical engineering at the Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science at MIT, these days anywhere from half to two thirds of the cost of a traditional, thin-film solar power system comes from installation costs, and up to half of the cost of the panel is for the glass and structural parts. But the transparent photovoltaic system he developed with Richard Lunt, a postdoctoral researcher at the Research Laboratory of Electronics at MIT, could eliminate many of these associated costs.

A paper by Bulović and Lunt describing their new system has been published online in the journal Applied Physics Letters.

Previous attempts to create transparent solar cells have either had extremely low efficiency (less than 1% of incoming solar radiation is converted to electricity), or have blocked out too much light to be practical for use in windows. This is what inspired the MIT researchers to find a specific chemical formulation for their cells that, when combined with partially infrared-reflective coatings, gives both high visible light transparency and much

better efficiency than earlier versions – comparable to that of non-transparent organic photovoltaic cells.

Adding the transparent solar-cell material to the glass of a new building or one where the windows are being replaced, would be a relatively small increase in price. According to the researchers, this is because the cost of the glass, frames and installation would all be the same with or without the solar component. It is yet too early in the process to be able to estimate the actual costs.

With modern double-pane windows, the photovoltaic material could be coated on one of the inner surfaces. This would result in the solar film to be protected from weather and window washing.

Windows generating powerIf all goes as expected in a new development from the labs at Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), the entire surface area of a building’s windows could someday be used to generate electricity without interfering with the ability to see through them.Written by Theresa van Tonder

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Most of the costs regarding existing solar panels come from the glass substrate that the cells are placed on and from the handling of that glass in the factory. Once again, much of that cost would not apply if the process was made part of an existing window-manufacturing operation. Bulović feels that “a large fraction of the cost could be eliminated” compared to today’s solar installations.

Bulović adds that this will not be the ultimate solution to all

the nation’s energy needs. He feels that it would rather form part of a “family of solutions” for producing power without greenhouse-gas emissions. “It’s attractive because it can be added to things already being deployed, rather than requiring land and infrastructure for a whole new system.”

fine-tUning the CellSBulović warns that the work is still at a very early stage. So far, they have achieved an efficiency of 1,7% in the prototype solar cells. With further development they expect to be able to reach 12%, which will make it comparable to existing commercial solar panels. “It will be a challenge to get there,” says Lunt. “But it’s a question of exitonic engineering, requiring the optimization of

the composition and configuration of the photovoltaic materials.” The researchers expect that after further development in the

lab followed by work on manufacturability, the technology could become a practical commercial product within a decade. “This product will not only be suitable for coating directly on glass in the manufacturing of new windows, but the material might also be coated onto flexible material that could then be rolled onto existing windows,” says Lunt.

“Using the window surfaces of existing buildings could provide much more surface area for solar power than traditional solar panels,” says Bulović.

Max Shtein, an associate professor of materials science and engineering at the University of Michigan, says: “This work demonstrates a useful effect and is based on very sound science and engineering.” But he adds: “It is just one of the many other methods by which a similar functionality could be achieved.” He says: “The biggest uncertainty at this point is that because they are so new, the lifetime of organic PV cells is a bit of an unknown factor at this point, although there is some hope.”

In addition, Shtein says: “The potential of this technology is good if projected far into the future, but only if its efficiency can be improved as the researchers expect it can.”

As added benefits, the manufacturing process for the MIT

researchers’ solar cells could be more environmentally-friendly because it does not require the energy-intensive processes used to create silicon solar cells. “The MIT process of fabricating solar cells keeps the glass panes at ordinary room temperature,” Bulović noted. Installations of the new system would also block out much of the heating effect of sunlight streaming through the windows, potentially cutting down on air-conditioning needs within a building.

The research was funded by the Centre for Excitonics, an energy-frontier research centre funded by the US Department of Energy.

For more information, visit http://web.mit.edu.

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PREsTIGIOUs PROjECTs By CGA

CGA Fenestrations, trading as Centurion Glass & Aluminium (CGA), is one of the leading manufacturers and installers of bespoke glass and aluminium solutions to the construction and infrastructure development industry.

Only a few years ago, CGA was acquired by Accentuate, which led to CGA becoming part of the infrastructure division of the Accentuate Group along with FloorworX. The company has developed a strong local presence and in the past and completed various projects in neighbouring countries such as Mozambique, Botswana, Swaziland and Angola.

Cga feneStrationS Worked on Several mUlti-million rand projeCtS SUCh aS:

Castle Walk•

FNB Bank Stadium•

Freedom Park•

Lebone College•

Castle Walk

Castle Walk

Freedom Park

FNB Bank Stadium

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The Castle Walk Shopping Centre in the east of Pretoria, owned by the Public Investment Corporation (PIC), took top honours in the refurbishment category of the South African Property Owners Association’s (SAPOA) recent Innovative Excellence in Property Development Awards.

CGA is expected to qualify and participate in the pilot programme for the newly- developed Construction Industry Development Board (CIDB) standard for construction management systems in Gauteng.

CGA Fenestrations (Pty) LtdTel: 012 666 8000E-mail: sales@cgaf.co.zaWebsite: www.cgaf.co.za www.autospec.com

Freedom Park

Lebone College

FNB Bank Stadium

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Charl Jacobz, national marketing manager of Swartland, offers some useful information and guidance on double-glazing solutions. Here is what he has to say:

Seeing doUbleThere are many benefits to bringing more natural light into a house. For one, utilising natural light instead of switching on the light fixtures saves energy. It also brings out the natural beauty of the furnishings and finishes, and it has the potential to instantly lift a person’s mood and improve his or her sense of well-being.

For years now, people have seen major architectural and interior design trends moving towards minimising the barrier between the outdoors and indoors, and fenestration has played a major part in making this possible. However, including a lot of windows or stack doors in the design of a house may be beautiful, but if they are not well insulated, it is not always the most practical or energy-efficient thing to do.

Double-glazing and insulation can easily reduce the energy spent on regulating the temperature in a house by as much as 50%. It substantially reduces and regulates thermal loss from the inside and solar heat gain from the outside – keeping a house warmer in winter and cooler in summer. It is also an environmentally-friendly solution.

doUble-glazing explainedDouble-glazing is the glazing process in which a window is formed from two panes of glass, with the space in-between filled with dehydrated air or a gas such as xenon or argon. The two panes of glass form a layer of insulation and are separated with an aluminium spacer, encapsulated in a primary silicone coating and then sealed with a secondary silicone or bitumen (waterproofing agent) sealant. The air trapped between the two panes of glass form a layer of insulation.

In any kind of fenestration, heat is lost from the warmer surface, such as the room-facing pane, to the cooler surface, such as the outdoor-facing pane. By filling the cavity of a double-glazed window with dehydrated air rather than normal air, the exchange between the two glass panes is greatly reduced. The molecules of dehydrated air are much less

mobile than normal air, which means that they transfer much less heat by convection or conduction and therefore boast better thermal insulation characteristics.

other benefitS of doUble-glazing liSted by jaCobzAcoustic insulation: • Double-glazing provides first-rate acoustic insulation and reduces outside noise levels. Noise pollution can be a real problem if a house is located in a highly populated area, near a busy road or in a very windy area. However, double-glazing can go a long way to protect a house from the disturbance of noise pollution. It will also contain noise levels within the house, so people won’t have to worry about disturbing their neighbours.Added security:• When glazing with 6,38 safety or intruder-proof glass, double-glazing provides excellent security for a house because its composition and design makes it very difficult to break through. This combined with imported German-engineered locking systems make Swartland windows exceptionally secure.Reducing condensation:• By installing quality double-glazed windows, the problem of condensation is greatly reduced as heat is reflected back into the room and the inner pane is warmer. Draught-proofing: • Quality double-glazed windows should boast all-round rubber seals in the frames to ensure that when closed, no draughts can get through, even in very windy areas.

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What people should know about double-glazing solutions

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SeleCting the WindoW frameSDouble-glazing is positioned within a window frame, and therefore care should be taken to select a high quality window frame as it can affect the overall insulation properties of the double-glazing by up to 30%. Traditionally, double-glazed windows were made of aluminium, steel and unplasticized polyvinyl chloride (uPVC).

Timber window frames can be a stunning addition to the indoor and outdoor aesthetics of any house. However, they also boast a smaller carbon footprint than other traditional materials, making them an environmentally-responsible choice to boot.

SeleCting the right glazingTo reduce heat loss, double-glazing window components need to be made of materials that are low thermal conductors, such as using timber frames. This will also apply to the actual glass that is used in the window.

Low-e glass has a transparent metallic-oxide coating that acts almost like a one-way thermal gateway. The coating works by selectively reflecting long-wave radiation, which is characteristic of internal heating sources. Sunlight and solar heat gain, which is short-wave energy, can pass through into the room, but indoor heating cannot escape to the outside as it is made up of long-wave energy.

the CoStOf course, double-glazed windows cost more than their single-glazed counterparts. However, the initial extra cost of double-glazed windows could end up saving people a lot of money in the long term by reducing the money they will spend on heating their homes.

Swartland Tel: 086 110 2425Website: www.swartland.co.za

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Light-steel frame building (LSFB) is a well-known building method in Australia, the USA and Europe, and has been in use for more than 50 years. It is used

for low- and medium-rise residential, commercial and office buildings, schools, colleges, clinics, hospitals and many more. In fact, it could be used for any type of building.

“This building method was never really established in South Africa until fairly recently,” says John Barnard, the director of SASFA.

the light Steel frame bUilding proCeSS

Approval by building authorities: As a first step, a normal building plan has to be drawn up by an architect or draughtsperson. This plan has to be submitted to the local authorities for approval, together with a rational design by a competent person, normally an engineer. The national standard for light-steel frame building, SANS 517, can be used as basis for the design.

Manufacturing and assembly: Building plans, preferably in electronic format, are used by the manufacturer of the light-steel frames as input to the system software used to carry out the structural design and detailing of the frame.

The dimensional data for the frame members is electronically transmitted to the sophisticated profiling equipment, which is fed from a coil of galvanized steel strip. It forms the sections via a set of progressive rollers, cuts each section to the exact length and punches holes for fasteners in the required places.

These machines even indent the sections at fastener locations

to provide a flat surface for the cladding materials. A unique reference number is automatically stencilled on each section to ensure that it is installed in the location specified on the structural layout drawings, also generated by the design software.

As the sections are produced, a team of factory workers assembles the frames and trusses under factory conditions - ideal for quality control.

Wall frames are provided with bracing elements to ensure the frames are square and rigid. If the building site is in a remote location, the manufacturer may elect to transport the sections for the frames and trusses strapped in bundles for site assembly, thus saving on logistical costs.

Some truss manufacturers also produce sections in long lengths, to be cut and assembled on site according to supplied detail drawings.

foundations and floors: Foundations should be designed and built to comply with Chapter 8 of SANS 517 and/or SANS 10400. Due to the low mass of the floors and walls, cost savings can be achieved when compared with foundations for heavy masonry buildings, depending on the soil conditions and the loads to be resisted by the foundations.

Care should be taken to set out and cast foundations and floor slabs accurately in terms of specified dimensions, squareness and levels. This is essential to facilitate quick erection of the frames, as it is costly and time-consuming to adjust the frames to fit on imperfect foundations and slabs.

Suspended floors consist of light-steel open-web joists or cold-formed C-sections, which span between load-bearing wall frames. Flooring boards are fixed to the floor beams using special

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self-drilling, self-tapping screws. Timber boards are often used in conjunction with high density fibre cement boards.

Erection of steel frames and trusses: Due to the low mass of these components and the inherent dimensional accuracy, the frames and trusses can be erected quickly by a small team of skilled artisans.

Frames are fixed to one another using hand-held power tools and self-drilling, self-tapping screws. When all the wall panels have been erected, levelled and squared, the frames are anchored to the slab and foundations using the prescribed anchor bolts.

At this stage, the cross-bracing may need adjustment to ensure rigidity of the structure before the roof trusses or the second floor beams are installed.

Trusses and beams are fixed to the wall panels using galvanized steel brackets and screws.

Enclosing the structure: The external wall frames are firstly covered by a vapour-permeable membrane to seal off the structure against air and water ingress.

After fixing a thermal break, the external cladding, typically fibre-cement board or planks, is then fixed to the steel structure using special self-drilling screws. With the external cladding erected, the roofing materials can be installed, providing a sheltered structure for internal completion of the building.

services, insulation and internal lining: The electrical wiring and plumbing can now be installed in the wall cavities. Plastic grommets are inserted in the pre-punched holes in the wall panel sections, and flexible water pipes and electrical wiring are passed through the holes.

Insulation material is installed in the wall cavities and above the ceiling, according to the specifications in SANS 517, after which the internal lining, typically gypsum board, is fixed to the light-steel wall frames using special self-drilling screws. Joints between panels are rendered according to the board manufacturer’s specifications, and the structure is then ready for painting and floor finishes.

Barnard cautions: “While light-steel frame building appears very

simple, special skills are required to achieve satisfactory results, as is the case with masonry building, and owners are urged to make use of qualified, competent builders.”

advantageS of light-Steel frame bUildingThe numerous advantages to LSFB covers quality right through to durability and everything in between.

Quality:• only quality-certified materials are to be used. Components are manufactured and generally assembled under controlled conditions in factories. Modern technology is used in manufacturing and the opportunity for human errors is minimized. Designs are approved by a structural engineer.Speed of construction:• As the building components, such as wall frames and trusses, are delivered to the site in large, yet manageable units, installation can be carried out very quickly by a small, competent team. The building can be enclosed within a few weeks, offering a protected shell for completion of the building. Time savings of up to 30% compared with conventional building have been reported. energy-efficiency:• Buildings are thermally insulated as part of the building process to comply with the requirements of SANS204 for energy-efficiency in naturally ventilated buildings.

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As a result, the energy required for heating and cooling to comfortable temperatures is reduced.Conformance to “green building” principles• : Apart from the savings in operational energy, the embodied energy of the light-steel walling components is reported in Australian research reports to be relatively low, making it a very environmentally friendly option.The materials used in light-steel frame building are recyclable, •

more than 70% of used steel is recycled, and use is made of recycled products for the manufacturing of insulation and cladding materials. With conventional buildings, it is not practical to recycle rubble when masonry buildings are demolished, and the rubble typically ends up as landfill.Superior finishes and accuracy• : Very narrow dimensional tolerances (millimetres) are achieved with light-steel frame building, with the result that “everything fits” – for example, door frames can be installed with the doors already hung with factory-fitted handles and locks. Corners of rooms are square and walls are perfectly vertical. Cost-efficiency:• Coupled to the speed of construction, reduced wastage and lower transport costs contribute to render this building method cost-efficient. Minimal wastage:• As light-steel frame building is an engineered process, a minimal wastage of materials occurs during manufacturing and the building process. Lower logistical costs:• Due to the low mass of the building elements, transport costs are much lower than for conventional building. After completion, it is also not necessary to remove truckloads of building rubble. flexibility:• Light-steel frame buildings can be built in stages,

as additions can be effected easily, without a major disruption and heaps of building materials. It is also eminently suitable for adding a second or third floor to existing buildings, as the low added mass may be accommodated by existing foundations (to be confirmed by an engineer).Durability:• Galvanized steel inside the building envelope will outlast the useful life of the building, provided the light-steel frame and cladding were correctly erected. Tests carried out by IZA and ILZRO in the USA over a ten-year period predicted a functional life for the light-steel frame of several hundred years! External steelwork should, however, be maintained as required by the local environment.

diSadvantageS of light-Steel frame bUildingWhile LSFB is well-known and widely used in the rest of the world, it is still relatively new to South Africa. Therefore some of the developers, designers, architects and engineers may still be uncertain and hence could be reluctant to specify light-steel framing.

Some of the local authorities are also not yet fully versed in LSFB, which could delay the approval of plans. As prescriptive requirements for LSFB have not yet been taken up in SANS 10400, the owner/developer has to submit either a rational design by a competent person or an Agrément certificate for the building method. Some municipal authorities mistakenly believe both are required. Unlike masonry building, each LSFB structure is designed for its application and has to be signed off by a competent person, normally a structural engineer. While this may add to the cost of the project, it does provide certified structural soundness.

Tests carried out by IZA and ILZRO in the USA over a ten-year period predicted a functional life for

the light-steel frame of several hundred years!

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While the light steel framing building methodology appears simple, it still has to be done correctly, and owners are advised to make use of experienced contractors registered with SASFA.

“The publication of SANS 517:2009 for light-steel frame building by the SABS has certainly helped to gain acceptance of LSFB by the building authorities, the banks and the professions. The structural engineer now needs only to confirm that the design complies fully with SANS 517, or supply a rational design only for those aspects where the design deviates from the standard,” adds Barnard.

fUtUre trendS in light Steel frame bUildingBarnard says: “Initially, the industry focus was on single- and double-storey residential buildings. However, the advantages of the building methodology, such as speed of construction, low mass and good insulation, lend itself admirably to other building types as well. Accordingly, we expect to see an increase in the use of LSFB for internal and external walling in multi-storey commercial and industrial buildings.”

The low mass of LSFB walling (less than 10% of the mass of masonry walls) reduces the load on the slabs of multi-storey buildings, which makes it possible to reduce the thickness of the slabs, in itself reducing the load to be supported by the columns. Hence slimmer columns can be used, further reducing the load on the foundations, with mass and cost savings being the result.

We also expect a future growth in demand for light steel framing as the pressure to build environmentally friendly, energy efficient buildings increase.

SaSfa’S indUStry SUrvey:In order to obtain strategic guidance from the industry regarding SASFA’s future industry development action plan, an industry survey was carried out.

Feedback indicated that the market felt that training, accreditation of members and marketing should be the major focus areas for SASFA.

The six-day course for light-steel frame building contractors is deemed to be the most important training programme and is therefore regularly presented in major centres in South Africa. The one-day training course for designers will be repeated early next year.

A lack of awareness of the advantages of LSFB amongst engineers, architects, developers and future home owners is seen as one of the obstacles to expanding the market.

In order to reach the professionals, SASFA will be exhibiting at green building conferences and exhibitions in Johannesburg and Cape Town, as well as at the Master Builders’ annual conference Furthermore, project articles will be used to inform the broader public of the advances being made with light-steel frame building.

light-Steel frame bUilding aCtivity in 2011After a recent activity survey amongst manufacturers of light-

steel framing, it was concluded that the expected throughput for 2011 exceeded the industry forecast made late last year by a whopping 50%. This is all the more remarkable as the area of buildings completed during the past year declined by 18% compared with the previous year, according to Statistics SA.

The mass of steel processed by the manufacturers of LSFB systems is used as the most accurate measure of the activity of the industry. According to the industry forecast, the total throughput during 2011 is expected to reach 21 000 tons of steel, exceeding the previous record set in 2009. A little more than 20% of the total tonnage will be exported as framing components, bringing the total local demand to 16 500 tons.

The local demand is constituted of 60% roof trusses only (i.e. light-steel trusses for use on conventionally built structures), and 40% light-frame buildings (wall frames and trusses). Three years ago more than 80% of the locally used tonnage was used for roof trusses, and the decline in the ratio to 60% proves that the demand for fully-fledged system buildings is increasing.

Expressed in terms of area, light-steel roof trusses will be used to cover buildings with a floor area of some 1,3-million m², while light-steel frame structures will be used for buildings with a floor area of approximately 380 000m². These buildings include residential buildings – from affordable to upmarket houses, offices, schools, commercial and industrial buildings.

It should be remembered that activity in the building industry is currently still at very low levels. It is however encouraging that the floor area of residential building plans approved is showing an increase compared with the previous year, though still at levels more than 50% lower than that of 2006/07. A number of manufacturers are quite positive about the prospects for light-steel frame building during 2012.

Walls & Roofs would like to give thanks and full acknowledgement to John Barnard from SASFA for his contribution to this article. For more information, visit www.sasfa.co.za .

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It has been a year since Razorbill relocated its production facility to new premises in Vereeniging. The company can boast with continuous growth

during the year, while also achieving excellent results. Razorbill went into several supply agreements with

major role players in the sector during the year, which enabled them to increase their output to levels where additional equipment was procured to serve the growing customer base.

The company also established additional supply lines in the building sector, which will effectively diversify the range of products supplied to customers. This will include materials

and services traditionally procured from hardware suppliers and service providers. The new unit will become operational during the third quarter of 2011.

During this year, several upliftment mechanisms were put into place to assist in the development of communities in which the company operates. This effectively helps customers to improve their BBBEE performance.

tWo lUxUry developmentS SeCUredRazorbill was recently awarded the design and supply of material to two luxury developments. One of these projects is a coastal resort while the other entails the supply and erection for a townhouse complex.

Their products are steadily gaining popularity in the higher-priced market. A steady growth in this sector is a reflection of this. In order to ensure the delivery of a total solution, Razorbill has incorporated the services of an architect firm into its portfolio.

prodUCtion UpgradeDuring the last quarter, additional equipment was procured which will be commissioned during September 2011, enabling the company to supply its continually growing customer base.

Razorbill is also in consultation with major equipment suppliers for the supply and delivery of an additional

production line, which will increase the existing production capacities whilst broadening its spectrum of materials supplied to the market. Contact Razorbill today for Light Weight Steel applications

Razorbill Properties 127 (Pty) Ltd Tel: 016 423 1749/50Cell: 082 808 3295 Fax: 086 271 7411 E-mail: csmith@vodamail.co.za

Relocation of facility shows results

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Comprehensive protection services and fire stopping for structural steelCape-based Firespec (est. 1971) uniquely specialises in both active and passive fire-protection systems nationwide. In addition to its well-known range of active security systems, Firespec also offers a comprehensive 24/7 turnaround service and a maintenance package for both existing systems and the leading-edge new systems that they install.

FireSpec’s CEO, Leo Slootmans, says:“This makes us a truly one-stop service provider. We back this with an extended 24/7 service offering of ongoing service,

maintenance and repair of a range of systems at the client’s premises.”

Recently Firespec broadened its active fire-product and service offering by entering the passive fire-stopping market, forging strategic supply deals with leading international companies, hence offering clients a range of state-of-the-art fire-stopping materials and compartmentalisation solutions in South Africa.

The company is the South African agent for the full ranges of Nullifire and the Envirograf passive fire-stopping products. The passive division head, Adam Rodgers, says: “The main offering is the Intumescent coating for structural steel, providing 30-, 60-, 90- and 120-minute fire rating, depending on the specification and section size of steel.”

Steel loses its structural strength under the extreme temperatures caused by fire. The application of the Intumescent coating provides much-needed time for the building to be evacuated and the fire to be extinguished, prior to structural failure occurring. This product was extensively used in Bloemfontein at the Loch Logon Waterfront development and currently at the large upgrade of the Blue Route Mall in Cape Town.

Another important product, Firespec Fireboard CSTM, is one of a few passive fire-control boards available in South

Africa and is often used for ceilings, cladding and partitions. It is rated for up to two

hours protection, as tested by the SABS. Rodgers says recent projects

where Firespec Fireboard CSTM was specified and installed include the Growthpoint Building at 11 Adderley Street in Cape Town, the Cape Town International Airport’s

new departures terminal and an interesting rooftop project at the

former Metropolitan Hotel, now called the Grand Daddy Hotel, in Cape Town.

Other passive fire-protection services on offer at the company include a supply and fix service for fire-

stopping, penetration and compartmentalisation of fire-hazard areas. This includes fire curtains providing protection from 60 minutes to an incredible two hours. “Fire curtains are designed to drop automatically in cases of fire, independently or when triggered by the security system,” says Rodgers.

FIRESPEC Tel: 021 685 1111E-mail: leo@firespec.co.za / adam@firespec.co.za Website: www.firespec.co.za

Firespec Fireboard CSTM protects the fire escape at a popular city hotel in Cape Town. Fire protection afforded to important structural elements at the Blue Route Mall refurbishment project, which is currently underway.

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soul of architecture in new marketing campaign

Safintra’s positioning as a world-class roofing and steel company is being strengthened with the launch of an innovative marketing campaign that is introduced

in this edition of Walls & Roofs. With this campaign, which is called Great South African Architecture, the company aims to engage with leading South African architects and professionals in the roofing and other creative industries to convey its message.

The campaign will promote Safintra’s roofing clients by giving exposure to the world-class work they have produced in a series of twelve advertisements due to appear during the course of 2011-2012. Projects that are featured in the campaign showcase Safintra’s renowned brands and products.

Des Strydom, national project co-coordinator and creative force behind the concept, explains that presenting roof sheeting in an exciting fashion is a challenge. “Despite roofing being an everyday necessity, it simply isn’t visually exciting unless it is presented in a unique way.”

Strydom says the challenge was to find a unique fresh approach to market their products. She was inspired by David Libeskind, a Polish architect, who said: “If architecture fails, it is pedestrian and lacks imagination and power. It only tells one story, that of its own making: how it was built, detailed and financed.” Libeskind is of the opinion that great buildings, like great literature, poetry or music, can tell the story of the human soul. They are not inanimate objects. “They live and breathe, and like humans have an inside and outside, a body and a soul.”

Strydom says the purpose of the campaign is to find and project the soul of the buildings in which Safintra had played a part. “I had the great privilege of finding my ‘soul capturer’ in the form of Dennis Guichard, an internationally recognised architectural photographer. I was fortunate enough to attend a few exhibitions featuring Guichard’s work and to get to know him prior to embarking on this adventure.”

Guichard has been commissioned exclusively for Safintra’s campaign, which will roll-out over the next twelve months.

Guichard has over 19 years post-graduate experience in architecture and mega-project design management. His sensational style of architectural photography is currently taking the world by storm. With an A-list portfolio of exclusive clients worldwide, Guichard is one of only two photographers in the

world who had been accepted into the prestigious FIFA-authorised 2010 Fine Art project. This project includes a limited-edition collection of thirty high-impact and abstract collectable photographs of the ten stadiums which played host to the 2010 FIFA World CupTM in South Africa.

Guichard’s Yas Island photography was extensively featured in an exclusive limited-edition hardcover book, which was distributed to VIP guests at the 2009 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi F1 Grand Prix. His images have appeared in print and on billboards all over Abu Dhabi for Aldar Properties’ recent Hoyamal campaign. His photography has also been featured in numerous international magazines.

“Further, and in recognition of the professionals who created outstanding buildings, images of the professional teams involved are an integral part of the campaign,” Strydom says. “The Durban-based portrait photographer Eve Morris of HT Photography has been commissioned for this.”

The final result marries all these images into a campaign that recognises the value of the strong partnerships that Safintra has forged with its clients. Marc Arnould, COO of Safintra Roofing (Pty) Ltd in Durban, states: “We are proud to have originated this idea in Durban and to have a national roll-out of this campaign. The campaign conveys the message that Safintra Roofing is all about professional relationships, world-class brands and great South African architecture.”

Professionals wishing to have their work showcased in the Safintra campaign should contact Des Strydom at deseres@safintra.co.za.

For more information visit:www.safintra.co.za • http://safintraroofing.blogspot.comwww.dennisguichardphotography.com • www.htfotography.com

Safintra Roofing & SteelTel: 011 823 4027Fax: 011 823 4288E-mail: info@safintra.co.zaWebsite: www.safintra.co.za

George Elphick and Nick Proome, both from Elphick Proome Architects, and Des Strydom from Safintra Roofing (Pty) Ltd.

Den

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Gui

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Eve

Mor

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Phot

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Commissioned Safintra Roofing

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Dr Hennie de Clercq, executive director of the South African Institute of Steel Construction (SAISC), urges architects and contractors to use steel frameworks

as steel is an affordable material that can solve a multitude of problems. “You can deform, drill, weld and cut steel into anything you like.” He adds that steel is lightweight and fabricated in a factory to ensure reliability and accuracy when using it for structural purposes.

Why do deSignerS and developerS ChooSe StrUCtUral Steel?Steel industry experts are convinced that steel is a great way to optimise efficiency levels in a construction project. They gave various reasons why designers and developers should use steel structures.

Speed of ConStrUCtion According to the American Institute of Steel Construction (AISC), the rapid design, fabrication and erection cycle of a project when using structural steel will buy time as a steel-framing system will be finished sooner. This shortens the construction period of a project, which means that a building can be ready for trade

© M

iTek

“If it’s not made of steel, it’s made using steel” can be said of almost anything made by man. The same characteristics of steel that makes this possible give architects the opportunity to be creative in the design of buildings and think out of the box. This is not the only reason why the use of steel structures grows in popularity in South Africa. The selection of structural steel for a building’s framework brings a list of benefits to a project. Written by Nichelle Lemmer

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in a shorter time span. According to the AISC, structural steel enhances construction productivity because of its shop fabrication.

The British Constructional Steelwork Association (BCSA) says the speed and accuracy of construction is critical to the creation of building and stakeholder value. According to them, earlier occupancy means an office owner can begin renting out space sooner, a factory owner can start producing products faster and a store operator can bring in sales money quicker. Fast construction also lowers financing costs and overhead expenses for construction management services. They say that because structural steel is a lighter framing material, it needs smaller and simpler foundations. This reduces both cost and the time spent on construction.

aeSthetiC appeal The AISC is of the opinion that architects love the natural beauty of steel and are excited about exposing it in the design of their structures to emphasize the grace, slenderness, strength and transparency of a frame.

The institute says structural steel allows project architects a greater degree of expression and creativity in their designs than any other construction material. Structural steel sections can be bent and rolled to create non-linear members to further enhance the aesthetic appeal of the structure.

The BCSA says steel offers new solutions and opportunities, allowing architects to expand their artistic expression. The association states that steel is used to bring the elements of beauty and drama to the design of a building that is difficult or too costly to produce with other materials. Curves using steel beams bent to a certain radius, segmented curves or combinations of both can create members that follow the outlines of irregular facades, arches or domes.

Paolo Trinchero, group business development and technical director of MacSteel, is inspired by international designs of buildings using steel. “Architects are creating phenomenal buildings with steel,” he says. According to him, it is easy to design creatively with steel as available software helps to make the analyses and design process seamless.

a green Stamp of approval Sustainability is structural steel’s middle name. According to the AISC, structural steel is the most recycled material on the planet. They say structural steel is currently made of 88% recycled products, and will be fully recyclable in the future.

The AISC is of the opinion that the carbon footprint of structural steel has been reduced by 47% since 1990.

The AISC says the recycling rate of structural steel and automobiles at the end of their lives is close to 100%. They state that rather than utilizing land for quarrying operations to provide aggregates or as landfills for construction material waste, structural steel manufacturers are emptying salvage yards, allowing that land to be used for other purposes.

According to De Clercq, using steel in construction projects reduces the impact of pollution. “As using steel leaves no construction waste, this contributes towards the low impact steel projects have on the environment.”

He says when manufacturers make a ton of new steel with a basic oxygen furnace, 2,45 tons of carbon dioxide is pushed into the atmosphere. “When scrap metal is used to manufacture recycled steel, less than half a ton of CO2 is produced to make a ton of steel.” He says recycled steel can be used in cans, cars, structures or even rockets to the moon. “Recycled steel doesn’t loose value.”

He explains further that using steel is better for the environment as a four-storey structure building made out of steel produces 20% less carbon dioxide than a structure made out of concrete.

flexibility of Steel StrUCtUreS The AISC says structural steel buildings can be modified in the future for new applications, loading conditions, vertical expansions and changes an owner desires.

According to the institute, building owners are always faced with changing requirements. They say a composite steel frame can be easily modified to satisfy the changing requirements of existing or new tenants. This includes increased floor loads for storage and equipment, new openings for mechanical equipment and vertical shafts for floor-to-floor staircases.

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They explain further that existing steel columns and beams can be strengthened through the attachment of steel plate to the flanges or webs of sections, allowing for greater loads.

According to them, even new stairways can be added to existing steel-framed buildings by removing a portion of the floor decking, bracing a single bay and adding the desired stair structure. These types of changes can be accomplished with little disruption while the building is still occupied.

optimize effiCienCyThe AISC states that structural steel buildings optimize building-space efficiency through the use of slender columns, thus maximizing useable floor space. Efficiency also increases by using longer spans for open, column-free spaces and the integration of heating, ventilation and air-conditioning (HVAC) systems into structural spaces, which allows a reduction of floor-to-floor heights.

According to the institute, the typical steel column occupies 75% less floor space than an equivalent concrete column. At the same time, structural steel allows longer spans that eliminate intermediate columns, which creates open-floor areas ideal for office layouts.

The institute says that parking structures also benefit from smaller structural steel columns and longer spans. The use of smaller footprint steel columns at the front of parking bays creates less intrusion into the parking space than larger concrete columns.

Trinchero says steel structures using cellular beams make service installation in a building easy. He says building with steel in a busy city causes minimum disruption when transporting it, as steel is easier to transport. “Panels can be made off site or on site,” he says.

Trinchero explains that using steel structures in the first place makes the revamp of buildings easy. “A steel structure makes it simple to change an office into a hotel.”

teChnology in the indUStry De Clercq is on top of current developments in the steel industry and considers the development of 3-D interoperability and building information modelling software, used to assemble steel structures, as one of the most important breakthroughs in the steel industry.

According to him, this technology enables users to assemble a steel building framework without hassles. “A steel construction consists of thousands of pieces, each with its own number or name. This creates huge amounts of information to be handled. Using a software programme helps builders to manage the design and construction of a project. The programme numbers the pieces to make it easy to assemble a steel framework.”

The AISC says the available modelling software allows for close cooperation between designers and steel specialty contractors in the design, fabrication and erection of building structures. According to the institute, this saves designers both time and money. Using the technology integrates fabricating and erection efficiencies into the designing process. With this method design models can be passed to various parties for analysis, detailing and fabricating operations.

Steel for earthQUake SafetyEarthquakes are unpredictable in terms of magnitude, frequency, duration and location. Consequently, the ideal structure to withstand earthquake forces will behave in a consistent and predictable non-brittle manner. According to the BCSA, light-gauge steel framing is capable of meeting this standard due to its ductility and the strict process used to manufacture steel studs, the inherent properties of steel and typical construction methods used in steel framing.

They say that building with steel should be considered at the top of the list to protect a house against damage and related consequences in case of an earthquake.

overvieW of the SoUth afriCan indUStryDe Clercq says the steel industry forms the backbone of various sectors in society, but steel is mostly used in the building and construction industry, which consumes more than 60% of the steel produced in the country. “Steel enables us to create advanced civilisations when looking at its economic, social and environmental impact in the last century.”

According to him, the steel industry is flourishing when one looks at its characteristics. “Jobs in the steel industry pay a lot more when comparing the incomes of jobs in similar industries,” he says.

Trinchero says multi-storey steel-frame buildings are fast becoming a reality in South Africa as this industry is getting their ducks in a row. “To build with steel structures is superfast.”

He says using steel structures is also cost-efficient as studies show that buildings in America are built cheaper. “This too will come to pass in South Africa as the industry is doing extensive research into challenges faced in the construction industry using steel, such as fire protection in high-rise buildings.” According to him, steel is fabricated and manufactured with top-notch modern equipment. “Millions of rands are spent to help this industry grow.”

He discusses various problems that architects and engineers are faced with when choosing to use steel instead of concrete. “It is better to get involved in the early stages of scheming and development of a project to explain the value of using steel and deciding what the impact of using steel will be on a project.”

According to him, consumers should consider using steel in these stages of a project. “Steel-frame buildings are not just rectangular boxes anymore, but come in various shapes and sizes.” He says designing buildings that are earthquake-resistant, like in Japan, or buildings that can generate power by using turbines or solar systems are all possible if the developers use steel.

Walls & Roofs would like to give thanks and acknowledgement to Dr Hennie de Clercq of the SAISC and Paolo Trinchero of MacSteel for their contribution to this article.

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When it comes to large span structures, MiTek proved that their Ultra-Span® light-gauge steel roofing system is the product of choice. Their light-gauge

steel roofing system has been widely utilized successfully on various commercial projects like the Zambezi Retail Mall and more recently on the KwaNobuhle shopping complex near Uitenhage.

MiTek’s Ultra-Span light-gauge steel structures can however also compete favourably with other more traditional products in the low-cost housing market due to the strength of steel and all the sundry materials being supplied in exact lengths, thereby leaving no wastage and making the structure very cost-effective.

MiTek’s roof trusses can be supplied in a kit with all components in the exact required lengths. The kit can be assembled on site.

LIGhT-GAUGE sysTEM for myriad applications

The Esselen Park low-cost project, which is currently ongoing.

The Klerksdorp low-cost project.

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Their roof trusses can also be supplied in pre-assembled form. Developers can save money as larger truss spacings (1,1 to 1,2m centres) mean more roofs can be transported on the same delivery. A roof erection can also be done quicker because less trusses are needed and the trusses are lighter.

A further site advantage, especially on large low-cost housing sites, is the inherent resistance of light-gauge steel to warping in poor weather conditions. The materials are also non-combustible and cannot be used for other purposes.

Light-gauge steel systems, like Ultra-Span®, is not only perfectly suitable for low-cost tile or sheeted roof-truss construction, but can also be easily used in purlin applications.

MiTek Industries (Pty) LtdTel: 011 237 8700Email: marketing@mitek.co.zaWebsite: www.mitek.co.za

The Olievenhoutbosch low-cost project.

The Cradock and Eshowe low-cost “purlin”-sheeted roof project.

adveRToRIal

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The 155-bed St Apollinaris District Hospital is located at Centocow (originally a Trappist missionary) in Creighton, KwaZulu-Natal. Following a multi-year plan

prepared for the facility by the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Health in 2003, new nurses’ homes and doctors’ apartments were considered vital to the future longevity of the hospital.

From an early geological survey undertaken of the property, obstacles were heightened for any future development. This being the case, light-steel frame buildings (LSFB’s) were proposed and adopted, which formed the basis of this development.

The nurses’ homes comprise three 645m2 nursing home blocks and a 550m2 doctors’ apartment cluster. The design is somewhat conventional, drawing influence from the existing hospital buildings dating back from the early 1900’s. While LSFB appears to be in its infancy in South Africa, architectural detailing was drawn from as far afield as Florida in the USA, Canada, Australia and New Zealand, being interpreted to comply with South African

conditions, building regulations and green building aspects.As with all projects, success is dependent on the entire team

ranging from client, implementation agent, consultants and contractors to local labour. Having been given special provincial permission to fast-track the project, the development bears testimony of what LSFB offers, having the project well on the road to being completed within its 9-month contract period, which is set for 6 November 2011.

Walls & Roofs spoke to Steve Swanepoel, managing director of SMS Designs Architects cc, who played an instrumental role in this project.

Steve says: “From its inception, the urgency of the development was paramount to the outcome of the project.” Put by Napoleon Bonaparte: “Victory belongs to the most persevering”. Anything is possible. One only needs to educate the public on the merits of LSFB.

By elevating the building platform on piers and building LSFB’s on top of a precast concrete slab, development could take place unhindered by the underlying founding conditions and at a much faster pace.

“As for all construction programmes of this nature, the outcome is dependent on the actions of all role players. Participation is vital to the project’s overall success.” says Steve.

According to Steve, the only minor disadvantage to this project was cash flow. “If one takes into consideration the somewhat shortened contract period with such a construction method, much larger payments needed to be made over shorter periods.” Steve further adds that at first this seemed to be a problem, but it was addressed quickly and amicably.

Documentation also plays a massive role in any project. “When working at a pace like this, you need to know what you are doing,” he says.

Steve is of the opinion that the benefits of LSFB’s far outweigh its disadvantages. “When one considers the floods in Queensland, Australia, in 2010, in a geographical area about the size of Germany and France combined, and considering that buildings suffering the least damage were those of a steel-frame construction built on stilts, LSFB’s are on the right track in South Africa. Even the ravaged east coast of Japan suffering from the earthquake and accompanying tsunami in March 2011, bodes well to this type of fast-track construction. The whole framing concept emanated from Florida in the USA in response to tornado disasters, but it was later adopted by both Australia and New Zealand and has developed to what we have available in South Africa today. What South Africans need to understand, is that success can only be determined by the level of the work ethics of its people. If we want LSFB’s to succeed in South Africa, we need to work on it.”

SMS Design Architects ccTel: 033 396 2075Fax: 086 672 7894E-mail: smsdes@mweb.co.za

New nurses’ homes and doctors’ apartments for st Apollinaris hospital

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Proud to be

associated with the

St Apollinaris Hospital Nurses Home complex

SMS Designs Architects CCTel: + 27 33 396 2075

Fax: +27 (0) 86 672 7894Cell: +27 (0) 82 541 3396

Email: smsdes@mweb.co.zaP.O. Box 101345, Scottsville, 3209, South Africa

SSI Engineers and Environmental Consultants (Pty) Ltd30 Montrose Park Boulevard, VCC EstateTel: 033 328 1000Email: davidw@ssi.co.za

Shospec (Pty)(Ltd)Mkondeni, PmBurgTel: 033 386 0100Fax: 033 386 0104 • 0866 491501www.shospec.co.za

Schoombie Hartmann Quantity SurveyorsTel: 033 212 2088Fax: 033 212 2088Cell: 082 924 8611Email: sonja@shgroup.co.zawww.shoombiehartmann.co.za

Armstrong ConstructionCobham House, 1 Commonage Road, Hillcrest, 3650Tel: 031 765 6445Fax: 086 627 4816Cell: 082 885 6954www.armstrongconstruction.co.za

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Brent Harris, managing director of Vela, says: “The biggest challenge of this project, which will house most of the 6 500 competing athletes

(from 48 countries), has been its extremely tight construction time frame.”

He adds: “This was brought about by Mozambique stepping in to host the Games after the original host, Zambia, withdrew on economic grounds, a decision which effectively halved the normal four-year preparation cycle.”

The Athletes Village, which is located in Zimpeto, a suburb of Mozambique’s capital city, Maputo, will provide 848 apartments in a configuration of 27 four-storey buildings. Each of the apartments will consist of three bedrooms, two full bathrooms, a living room, a dining room, a kitchen and front and rear verandas. The whole project comprises almost 100 000m2.

“Given the sheer scale of the project and the extremely tight

deadline, the main contractor, a consortium of Mota-Engil and Soares da Costa, decided to use the Worthington Construction (USA) method of cold-form steel (CFS) framing as the structural system on the project,” says David van Zyl, the operations director of Vela.

He says: “This provided the speed, efficiency, strength and innovation required not only to meet the project deadline, but also to produce a high quality end-product in the process.”

A large amount of the cold-form (or cold-rolled) steel for the project was supplied by Vela by the way of road hauls from Johannesburg to the site.

Van Zyl says: “By using load-bearing CFS framing members (wall studs and floor joints), the project took advantage of steel’s

greater strength to weight ratio, compared with traditional construction methods such as poured-in-place concrete.”

The Worthington Construction Group’s framing system incorporates into the structure innovative time, resources and engineering efficiencies.

“Furthermore, the use of a structure as lightweight as possible provides the necessary strength and ductility to survive a seismic event with no catastrophic failures. By comparison, the weight of a concrete structure would have imposed significantly greater base share on the foundations,” says Van Zyl.

Rather than traditional platform-framed this floor is ledger-framed, which eliminates fire-blocking requirements. It also reduces time on the installation of floor-to-floor shear connections and on layout for the floor above.

According to Van Zyl, each floor is sheathed with a galvanized metal deck, which “allows MEP trades to rough in all of their

work before the self-levelling floor underlayment (3 500 psi) is poured”.

“The unique floor underlayment is half the weight of structural concrete, thus reducing floor-system dead loads and allowing for a lighter foundation. The floor assembly also eliminates shoring and core drilling, thus allowing MEP trades to move more quickly from floor to floor,” says Van Zyl.

“Another advantage of CFS framing is the adoption of the technique of panelisation of the load-bearing interior and exterior wall panels, which accelerates the construction process and reduces the variability and guesswork, while increasing the level of quality.”

Van Zyl’s conclusion is: “In a nutshell, the advantages in speed, efficiency,

strength and innovation have been the driving forces that enabled the Athletes Village project to meet its deadlines without compromising the high quality end-product.”

South Africans and Mozambicans were the predominant workforce on this project. Some of them were trained by experienced carpenters from the USA, China and Portugal on the new framing technology.

The Athletes Village will be converted into housing for local residents of Zimpeto once the All Africa Games are over and the athletes have returned home.

For more information, contact Brent Harris on 083 708 9910 or David van Zyl on 082 657 7374.

Key player in sprint to house AfRICA GAMEs AThLETEsVela Steel Building Systems, a South African company, played a part in the technical solution to fast-track construction of accommodation for athletes involved in the 10th All Africa Games in Mozambique in September this year.

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Since the commissioning of the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC) in 2003, it has shown great year-on-year growth, making the centre one of the most popular business facilities in the Mother City.

During the 2009/2010 review period, the CTICC hosted some 533 events, including the FIFA™ Soccer World Cup final draw and others. With a huge upgrade on

the cards in the coming years, this centre is set for continued growth and attracts more visitors every year. It currently contributes a major R2,3-billion to the national gross domestic product.

The original COLORBOND® steel roofing material was originally specified by architects for the centre’s roof. After eight years on the roof, it is still in an excellent condition and going strong.

The modern version of this remarkable roofing material, Clean COLORBOND™ steel, rightly qualifies for its sustainability credentials as it is suitable to use in humid, windy and salt-laden marine environments. It can also deliver up to a range of 400 metres from the sea, such as occurring in the nearby Cape Town harbour.

Inspections of the CTICC roof show that the white COLORBOND® steel installed about eight years ago remains unfaded and is still without corrosion damage. In addition, its paint system still reflects a substantial quantity of inbound sunlight, and helps to keep the convention centre and its visitors cooler inside, lowering the carbon footprint of the CTICC.

BlueScope Steel Southern Africa (Pty) Ltd, the supplier of Clean COLORBOND™ Steel, is proud of their association with the CTICC. Wayne Miller, general manager of the company, says Clean COLORBOND™ steel retains the key attributes of the original COLORBOND® steel. It provides high resistance to fading, high gloss retention, high infrared reflectivity and provides the superior corrosion performance of its ZINCALUME® Steel substrate. “This is lightweight steel coated with aluminium (55%), zinc (43,5%) and silicon (1,5%).” Recently launched in an exciting new range of colours based on market research, their material also creates numerous opportunities for the designer to work creatively with curved shapes. “This is due to its light weight and formidable characteristics,” he adds.

He says BlueScope Steel placed great emphasis on sustainability, as demonstrated by the information campaign they recently launched to keep architects, developers and building professionals up to date. “This is also backed by working products that provide the user with an extremely long life in service,” he says.

Rashid Toefy, chief executive officer of the CTICC, stated in his 2009/2010 annual report that sustainability can no longer be a secondary consideration for any business wishing to remain successful. “For this reason, sustainability is not considered a part of the future success of the CTICC, but rather plays an integral part on the road to success.”

“BlueScope Steel backs its sustainability claims with a highly effective product warranty to perforation,” says Miller. He invites customers to contact their offices to get advice and register a project before beginning installation on site. “Always check that the product you install is the original Clean COLORBOND™ steel or ZINCALUME® steel. Panels made with our product are uniquely branded on the underside,” Miller comments.

the CharaCteriStiCS of Clean Colorbondtm Steel:Unique high-tech paint system that is designed and approved •

by BlueScope Steel in a range of new colours.Durable oven-baked paint system for superior colour •

performance.Unique dirt-repellent paint system.•

Special infrared technology to reflect solar heat, resulting in a •

cooler building that increases thermal efficiency.Excellent anti-corrosion performance that is based on •

ZINCALUME® steel substrate.Long life – up to four times longer than pre-painted galvanised •

steel Z275 in the same environment.When building 100m to 400m from breaking surf, the use of •

Clean COLORBONDTM Ultra steel is recommended.

BlueScope Steel Southern Africa (Pty) LtdWayne Miller, general manager Tel: 021 442 5420E-mail: wayne.miller@bluescopesteel.com Website: www.bluescopesteel.co.za

steel roofs suitable for use in AGGREssIVE

CLIMATEs

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When using steel creatively, you can create a futuristic look for any house. This is what Daly Genik, the designer of a new look for the Palms House in California, did when he was commissioned to refurbish the house.

The original house was a large open loft with one bedroom. The guest apartment was on top of a garage at the front of the property. Genik tackled and reorganised the space to better suit the new family and their often visiting relatives. His overhaul resulted in a housing complex that brings the family together, while allowing the main residence a bit of privacy when the in-laws come around.

During the refurbishment, he came up with some “out of the box” ideas.The main house was expanded from one to three bedrooms, and three baths. An unused back room, adjacent to the kitchen, was opened up to create an innovative outdoor dining area by removing the roof.

Perforated metal skins were added in jutting geometric shapes to the facade of the main house and the apartment/garage. Angled and pointed into triangles, the skins are supported by aluminium frames and almost reach towards each other, creating a relationship with the main and guest houses. Inside the angles, Genik built odd-shaped balconies that extend from the master bedroom and the apartment. The perforated metal also acts as a natural shade from the sun and filters in natural lighting into both structures. The perforation creates a sense of privacy, but also allows the family members to see each other from their respective balconies.

Each building is passively cooled by the metal perforations and cross-breezes from the added balconies. The gardens and courtyard have been thickly planted with lush greenery to further cool the interiors. Solar panels were installed on the roof of the main house to collect solar power to heat the water for the buildings and for the radiant-heat floor panels.

Full acknowledgement and thanks are given to Inhabitat.com for the information used in the article.

INNOVaTIVE STEEL DESIGNS

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Architecture Morning Breakfast conference hosted by Walls & Roofs in Africa

Walls & Roofs magazine is hosting the first in a series of Architecture Events.The topics and speakers are:

Urban Architecture by •Fanuel Motsepe from Motsepe Architects Green Design Best Practice by • Marloes Reinick from Solid Green ConsultantsEnergyEfficiencyandthelinkwithGreen•Design Best Practice by Warren Gray from Solid Green ConsultantsTheimplicationsofnewenergyefficiency•regulations;SANS204-1,2,3,andSANS10400-XAbyLisa Reynolds: chair of technical committee at SABS

Morning Breakfast ConferenceVenue: SAX Arena, Southdowns, Centurion, PretoriaDate: 7 October 2011Cost: R 160 per delegateSeats limited: early booking is essential.

For bookings and more information, please contact:

Lorraineon0123477530Alidaon0823256617Shayneon0829455030

The first 10 tickets are free!

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Written by Theresa van Tonder

key inflUenCeS on trendS “Seeing that we have just gone through a severe financial recession, global warming becoming very noticeable and technology is advancing quicker than we thought imaginable. We find ourselves totally removed from our comfort zones, having to deal with issues we have more than likely never been faced with before,” says Dave Nemeth from the South African Institute of Interior Design Professions.

Nemeth believes that “this will create huge amounts of opportunities, new discoveries and new insights, as well as a whole new way in which we design and create spaces”.

The iid Nemeth Trend report is compiled through sources such as international trade shows and local trade shows. Various international trend websites and blogs are visited and international fashion and décor magazines are studied. Information is also accumulated through international colour specialists, Pantone, NCS and international retailers. After all the information is collected, the team at iid looks at the common threads. Although the themes are generally generic, key items will be specific.

When one bears in mind that the way in which people interact has changed and the way in which they receive information has changed, the logical next step is that the way in which they do business will also change.

With all this change and disturbance around them, people find that their values also change. People have a different view on recreation, living and of course spending.

“Even when economies strengthen and we too become better

off, we will find that we have very different criteria on what we spend our money on than what we had in the past.

“The last decade revolved around mass-produced and almost disposable items. It was easy to spend a few hundred rand on setting a table up for a dinner party and not being concerned how long it lasted or how it was manufactured. Longevity was not an issue, if it looked good and the price was right we were sold.”

Taking into consideration all that is happening around them, it’s easy to understand that consumers start to have a conscience towards what they buy and how they buy it. Now, consumers would rather pay a bit more knowing it is well made or from a sustainable resource.

Consumers want personalised items, a choice, limited editions or handmade elements. They have a yearning for the simplistic and items with a tactile quality.

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Designers are also looking at the past, from materials to methods of construction and right through to styling.

This has resulted in the fact that as a replacement for replication, like several of the trends people have recently seen, for instance the French revival, they now see a new clean approach. Apart from this, there is also a strong industrial influence happening with items being created now that looks as if they have come straight out of the industrial revolution.

Although people are now facing a change in mindset and have a need for tactile and sustainable items, they still embrace technology. “You just have to go to a mall to see 80% of people engaging on their smart phones, chatting, dealing, getting and receiving information. We buy online, we compare prices online and we get inspired online. We no longer need a PC or a laptop, the information is directed to us,” states the iid Nemeth report.

This era of technology and influence thereof has also had a huge impact on design. On the flipside to the tactile design described earlier, people see a modern, forward-thinking design style emerging.

ColoUrColour is optimistic yet contemplative. In a time of chaos and a lack of order, people gather their thoughts and reacquaint themselves with what is positive and achievable.

Values are redefined, inspiration and comfort are found from old treasures, and they celebrate aged, decayed and time-worn imperfect colour.

On the other hand, people see an increasing desire for honest, clean colour, as our quest for authenticity and simple products increase. It becomes important to embrace the unpredictable and experimental, using clashing and unexplored colour themes that are inspired by science and nature.

key elementS and inflUenCeSIndustrial:• People see industrial lights and factory shelving, to pressed metal chairs. Metal is non-refined and sometimes eroded and rusted. In design they see joints as well as rough welding.Pebble shape: • Natural elements play an important part in design going forward. This seems to be in reaction to all the technology people are surrounded with. They currently see the pebble as a strong influence in design, not only in form but also in colour.hex- and polygons: • For every action there is a reaction and in strong contrast to the organic influences people see these highly geometric shapes influencing design.

key itemS Exposed bulbs: • This is an extension to the industrial elements people are using – this is even seen with top-end brands.

Coloured glass: • Once again people see a shift towards brightly-coloured glass, from bright neon’s to pastel shades.

neW materialSEcoGlass – Bendheim: • EcoGlass™ textured architectural glass contains approximately 60% recycled material, including 25% to 40% post-consumer glass, and is produced in an enviro-sensitive factory. The high-recycled content is paired with supreme transparency, brilliance and colour. The glass has excellent day-lighting qualities and is available in ten textures offering varying degrees of privacy.Buzziskin 3D Tile – Buzzispace @ D’apostrophe LLC •

The 3Dimensial Buzziskin is a biodegradable product to be used as wallpaper or billboard made of “ecofelt” – a 100% recycled material.Novus – spinneybeck: • Novus embodies all the characteristics of recycled leather, but with an additional water-based finish on the surface of the product. The back of the product remains unfinished to remind clients of Novus’ humble beginnings. The client determines the colour and texture of the surface, providing endless combinations.Terralon• TM – Roysons Corporation: Terralon™ is Royson’s brand of earth-intelligent wall coverings made from recycled materials. It boasts the same aesthetic features and performance qualities of traditional vinyl wall coverings, yet is totally PVC-free and qualifies for LEED creditsWeave No 1748, Lodge/Conrad, Original sunshades• ®: Luxuriantly woven in deep woodsy colours of bark, tobacco leaf, moss and straw, Lodge is a handsome, highly textured weave that can happily coexist with a mood of sophistication or simplicity. Custom hand-woven to the size of sustainable natural fibres, Lodge is available as both roman-fold and motorized roll-up shades.Traffic – Porcelanosa: • Traffic is part of Porcelanosa’s Ecologic line. Obtained from 95% recycled materials from lines of production, among its advantages are the energy savings of recycled tile and its durability, which makes it suitable for outside applications in anti-slip version. It is available in Anthracite, Gris, Negro and Arena. UltraGlas-E – UltraGlas, Inc.: • UltraGlas-E (patent pending) provides an ecologically-friendly way to divert millions of tons of scrap architectural glass from international landfills and repurpose it locally as 100% recycled glass — contributing to distinctive spaces through a variety of interior and exterior applications. Standard and custom sizes, configurations and options are available.spiderweb/Livinglass Light – Livinglass: • Livinglass introduces Spiderweb in “Light” and “Curves”, made with 100% recycled glass and resin, and a sustainable Barkskin™ by Caba interlayer. Livinglass Spiderweb is a decorative laminated safety glass that offers exceptional design at an affordable price. It is available in ivory and cinnamon. Graphic Concrete: • Graphic Concrete offers a unique possibility to manufacture and use a patterned-exposed aggregate finish from graphic pictures to fine-living designs. Their business is based on a patented invention to use different printing techniques for applying surface retarder on a special membrane. The technology of Graphic Concrete enables

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concrete surfaces with textures, different kinds of patterns, works of art, detailed pictures and written text, which is bringing opportunities in architectural planning and design. Graphic Concrete is a cost-efficient technology with a short through-put time in production. The result is either a pure cast surface or a patterned-exposed aggregate finish.Plexiglas• ® Radiant: Rainbows never cease to fascinate people. Plexiglas® Radiant acrylic sheets have a surface coating on one side that is responsible for the lighting effect. Plexiglas® Radiant Take extra space out changes its colour depending on the viewing angle and also uses ambient light to create its own lighting effects. Plexiglas® produces mirror-like reflections and shines in every colour of the rainbow. This product is easy to saw, mill, drill, bend and polish and can be thermoformed into almost every desired shape. Available in sizes of 2 438mm x 1 219mm and thickness of 3mm. Also available on structured acrylics. Polycon GfRC: • GFRC (glass-fibre reinforced concrete) panels are lightweight and durable and allow for exterior designs with sculptural shapes. The polycon composite material formula consists of basic cement material, fine aggregate, water, dispersed-resistant glass fibre and other chemical additives. A wide range of customized colours, textures, shapes and designs can be produced. GFRC is an extremely moldable material and this allows complex shapes to be formed. Freeform curves, complex cornices and intricate details can be incorporated

into the panels. Panels can include reveals, window sills, copings, soffits and special shapes. GFRC cladding is durable and low maintenance. GFRC offers superior weathering performance, a high level of corrosion resistance and is non-flammable.

Rosae: • Once flowers have already bloomed, they are usually thrown away. So that they can be enjoyed for longer and to create something of value from the waste, Zoubida Tulkens made wallpaper from rose petals.

She collected rejected roses from flower growers, removed the petals and made each one smooth using a flat iron. Using natural glue, Tulkens stuck the petals on wallpaper. Each sheet of wallpaper has its own pattern, and four sheets together create a bigger pattern.Chroma: • Chroma is a metallised surface with special matt-gloss effects on a high quality non-woven backing. It revives the glory days of metal wallpapers from the seventies, combines this spirit with contemporary designs and makes the most of the material properties resulting from modern technology. The colour of brushed chrome, which reflects the sunlight in different widths, was the inspiration for the naming of the newest Architects Paper creation. The collection includes traditional, minimalist and classical design. The basic metallic

colours of silver, gold and champagne are used in combination with white, black, dark aubergine, deep red, cheeky petrol, tone-on-tone and silver gold.

faUx finiSheS making a ComebaCk Faux finishing dates back from cave painting to ancient Egypt. But the faux finishes people generally think of in decorative arts began with plaster and stucco finishes in Mesopotamia over 5 000 years ago.

Faux became popular in classical times in the forms of faux marble, faux wood and trompe l’oeil murals. Before working on their own, artists would apprentice with a master faux painter for ten years or more. Artists who could actually trick viewers into believing that their work was the real thing, was given great recognition.

Faux painting has continued to be popular throughout the ages, but experienced major resurgences in the neoclassical revival of the nineteenth century and the Art Deco styles of the 1920’s. Faux finishing has been used mainly in commercial and public spaces throughout the recent history of decorative painting.

Faux painting saw another major revival in the late 1980’s and early 1990’s as wallpaper began to fall out of fashion. This finishing technique became extremely popular in home environments, with high-end homes leading the trends. One of the main attractions of faux finishes is the fact that it can easily be painted over, compared to the hassle of removing wallpaper.

Today there are two major materials or processes used in faux finishes. Glazework involves using a translucent mixture of paint and glaze applied with a brush, roller, rag or sponge, and often mimics textures, but is always smooth to the touch. Plasterwork can be done with tinted plaster or washed over with earth pigments, and is generally applied with a trowel or spatula. The finished result can either be flat to the touch or textured.

exampleS of painting inClUde: Graining, wood graining or • faux bois (French for fake wood). This is often used to imitate exotic or har to find wood varieties. Query: What does this mean? It doesn’t make any sense. Trompe l’oeil• (French for trick to the eye) is a realistic painting technique often used in murals and to create architectural details. Venetian plaster is a smooth and often shiny plaster design that •

appears textured, but is smooth to the touch. Venetian plaster is one of the most popular and traditional plaster decorations. Colour-wash is a free-form finish that creates subtle variations •

of colour, using multiple hues of glaze blended together with a paint brush. Strie• (French for stripe or streak) is a glazing technique that creates soft, thin streaks of colour using a paint brush. It is a technique often used to simulate fabrics such as linen and denim. Rag painting or ragging is a glazing technique using twisted or •

bunched-up rags to create a textural pattern.

Walls & Roofs would like to give thanks and full acknowledgement to iid Professionals and Dave Nemeth, who contributed to this article.For more information, visit www.iidprofessionals.co.za or www.athenspatch.com.

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If you are looking for a chance to give your home, flat or townhouse a touch of trendy flair, you can get a durable finish without breaking the bank. Rockgrip offers an extensive range of paints for every surface, from enamels to primers, undercoats and roof paints, and provides an affordable way to colour your home with the brand’s stylish and recently updated tones.

refreShed pallet“Rockgrip has refreshed its colours and has created a pallet that is as trendy as it is affordable,” says Bennum van Jaarsveld, the communication manager of Dulux South Africa. “The new range consists of earthy colours including white, fresh clay, baked earth, African sunset, dark bark, and desert sand and river bed. Those wishing to give their homes a facelift won’t be disappointed with the Rockgrip finish,” Van Jaarsveld says.

preparationPreparation is a key factor in any successful painting project. Rockgrip’s range of conventional primers makes prepping of the most decorative surfaces easy and economical. From steel to wood, Rockgrip has a primer for use on any surface in the house.

pilotexRockgrip recently launched a range which boasts a textured finish offering. The new Rockgrip Pilotex finish is one of quality and

durability. It offers excellent dirt-shedding properties and dries to a textured matt finish. It’s water- and alkali-resistant and has easy water clean-up properties that make these benefits hard to ignore. With its ease of application by roller, this makes it a great brand to use.

interior finiSh In addition to Rockgrip’s refreshed pallet of shades, the brand also offers a range of interior products to beautify the inside of your house. One of these products, Maxicover, is a good quality, high opacity paint suitable for use on a new or previously painted interior or exterior walls and ceilings. Rockgrip’s Soft Velvet is, a quick-drying durable paint, provides a mid-sheen finish. This range of products is available in a variety of calm colours that will undoubtedly turn a house into a home and

includes shades like white, peach, cream, pebble rock, lefatshe and Kalahari blush.

The Rockgrip range provides products of affordability, quality and durability. Don’t hesitate to colour your home by using their refreshed and updated trendy shades.

DuluxTel: 011 861 1000E-mail: info@dulux.co.zaWebsite: www.duluxtrade.co.za

Using paint technology known as Lumitec, Light & Space reflects up to twice as much light around a room compared to ordinary emulsions and thus uses less energy. With its reflective paint components and cleaner tinting recipes, Light & Space makes interiors appear lighter, brighter and more spacious.

Because of Light & Space’s energy-saving properties, light is distributed more efficiently, thereby reducing the need for artificial lighting. Light & Space uses up to 20% less energy. This is ideal for environmentally-conscience people.

Using Light & Space means that you now have choices, other than white, to brighten a room. According to Dulux Trade, the Light & Space range offers 26 harmonious colours, as well as white from the palest of yellows to cool and calm aquamarine. This unique selection of colours is available in a hard-wearing water-based finish known as Diamond Matt. This technology

offers a tough and washable finish with excellent durability and stain resistance.

“In short, Light & Space paint has been designed with the environment in mind. Lumitec is more reflective and less absorbent of natural or artificial light, thereby maximising the impression of space and giving the room in question an improved ambience and appearance while using less energy,” explains Dulux’s communication manager, Bennum van Jaarsveld. According to van Jaarsveld, Light & Space is the ideal solution for small dark rooms.

Dulux TradeTel: 011 861 1000E-mail: info@dulux.co.zaWebsite: www.duluxtrade.co.zawww.autospec.com

CREATE LIGhTER, BRIGhTER AND MORE sPACIOUs INTERIORs WITh PAINT

COLOuR yOuR HOmE WITH aFFORDabLE SHaDES

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The time comes for every house to get a new coat of paint or to repaint areas that inevitably needs a touch-up. If it’s not the age or wear of the paint, then it’s the fickleness of fashion which drives the need for a new colour scheme. In the current economic climate, the real challenge is to set money aside for such a project, as most of us are on a tight budget.

Dawid du Plessis, technical services manager at Prominent Paints, says if your plan to redecorate is carefully thought through, you can stretch your

money a little further. “The first step is to consider why you want to repaint: Is the house looking worse for wear, or do you want to change the colour scheme?”

According to him, the motivation for the task will have an impact on the preparation and cost. “A change in colour scheme will require less preparation and will in all likelihood cost less in terms of product, compared to a complete refurbishment,” he says.

He says it is the best to tackle one section at a time if you are repainting on a tight budget. “First focus on the area that requires the most urgent attention,” he says. “Don’t take on too much at once. You’ll waste money if you don’t do the job properly. If the paint is not applied properly, you will have to repaint again soon after your revamp,” he says.

According to him, labour costs can have a major impact on a person’s budget. “You can do most of the repainting yourself, saving you money,” Du Plessis says. “Just make sure you prepare the surfaces properly and use the right products to avoid wasting money and effort.”

Where there are substrate issues that need rectifying, it must be solved properly the first time. “If the walls and other surfaces

require repairing, rather have this sorted out than attempting to cover it with paint,” Du Plessis advices. “This means you can generally use a more affordable finishing coat.” He says if you use this method you may need repainting in five years, rather in seven or ten, but then it should merely require an overcoat.

“On the other hand, if you fail to give attention to the underlying issue, you will spend more time and money to fix it properly further down the line,” Du Plessis says.

Another tip he gives to stretch a budget, is to ensure that only coatings with the right specifications are selected. “A more expensive coating might work out cheaper in the long run because its rate of spread is far higher. A paint that costs less requires you to purchase three times as much to achieve the same result.”

He says there is no need to use a more costly, purpose-specific paint when it’s not needed. “Also check what you have in the garage. If you have half a tin of paint or filler, use it first. You should always buy what you need in the correct pack sizes so that when the job’s done, you don’t end up with partially used tins of paint gathering dust in the storeroom.”

Du Plessis further explains that purchasing good quality brushes and rollers will enhance the quality of the job. “Cheaper tools may seem like a saving, but they wear out faster and can affect the quality of the finish.”

“Most importantly, if you do get the DIY-bug, don’t assume that you can’t afford it,” he says. He says you can visit a Prominent Paints decorating centre and talk to experts. “We will recommend fit-for-purpose coatings that will fit within your budget and also enable you to do the job correctly the first time,” Du Plessis concludes.

Prominent Paints Tel: 011 389 4700E-mail: customercare@prominentpaints.co.zaWebsite: www.prominetpaints.co.za

REPAINT yOUR hOUsE, even on a tight budget

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Wall Design is pleased to announce the newest additions to their extensive range, Chacran and The Gardens of Amsterdam.

ChaCranFrom a natural tree-bark effect to a playful flowering-stem theme, the roots of the Chacran collection lie in nature. Marius van der Bank, general manager of Wall Design, says: “This collection allows you to breathe life into a wide variety of spaces, literally and figuratively.”

Chacran boasts seven different designs that feature a natural tree-bark effect as well as playful, elegant, flowering, spring themes and subtle textures. Each of these designs comprises of strong shapes and a collection of bold colours.

“A definitive sense of architecture, style and history has been achieved with nature as a central core to the design concept,” adds Van der Bank.

This new design concept caters for each individual’s personality and brings to life the essence of a graceful

Mirror mirror

on the wall...

Tel: 011 704 9780 • Fax: 011 704 9790 • www.WallDesign.co.za

with ArT & NATURE

Bring your walls to life

Whose paper’s

on these walls?

Tel: 011 704 9780 • Fax: 011 704 9790 • www.WallDesign.co.za

summer morning. Rich plums, chocolates, purples and greens complete the consistent theme.

Each design is constructed in various layers, using state of the art techniques. The relief and occasional metallic accents create an interesting play of light and shadow.

The vinyl top layer makes this wall covering scratch- and shock-resistant and even washable.

the gardenS of amSterdamAfter the huge success of the Shadows on the Wall collection, renowned designer Annet van Egmond and BN International have again teamed up to bring you their striking new collection, The Gardens of Amsterdam.

The Gardens of Amsterdam, is defined by artisan elements and through the use of the latest techniques, the wall covering shows depth and light effects. The silver and gold pigments give it a unique sheen and radiate luxury.

Annet drew inspiration from her immediate surroundings with a colour pallet that reflects natural light.

Van Egmond says: “Wall coverings are like paintings, with light that floods your home serving as an important guide. This collection is a highly personal collection, born from my immediate surroundings and my home. I looked at our old ceilings with their restored stucco ornaments, the ferns in our garden and the wrought-iron fence surrounding it.”

Wall Design is the sole distributor throughout sub-Saharan Africa and the Indian Ocean Islands of BN Internationals acclaimed wall covering ranges.

Wall DesignTel: 011 704 9780E-mail: sales@walldesign.co.zawww.WallDesign.co.za

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Verified “green” thermal and acoustic

CEILING PRODUCT

Frame Industrials in Durban is the manufacturer of a wide range of insulation products for the building industry, including the popular ThermocousTex range, which is an environment- and people-friendly polyester board or fibre that is used extensively for thermal insulation and acoustic isolation in the building sector. All the projects above selected ThermocousTex for its thermal and acoustic properties.

Frame IndustrialTel: 0861 DATLINK (3285465)E-mail: sales@datlink.co.zaWebsite: www.thermocoustex.co.za www.autospec.com

ThermocousTex is primarily an acoustic and thermal product, which can be used in applications from skimmed and suspended ceilings to over-purlin. ThermocousTex is the first thermal and acoustic ceiling product to be verified “Green” by Eco-Specifier South Africa.

Some of the projeCtS Completed by thermaCoUStex are:

gautrain, suspended ceiling application, vinyl and metro-board finish.

Cafda technical Centre in Cape town, over-purlin application, white foil finishes.

Wilderness leadership School in durban.

normin hensilwood School.

thermocoustex plasterboard skimmed ceiling.

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COmPaNy PROVIDES a muLTITuDE OF SERVICES

REFuRbISHmENT IS THEIR SPECIaLITy

To modify or refurbish a building is usually a big task, as various service providers or contractors are needed to complete the project. Watcon offers clients an easy solution as they can be trusted to provide a variety of services without hassles. PriceWaterhouseCoopers chose Watcon to refurbish

their office building in Sunninghill. Flip Kruger, project manager of the refurbishment, says

his team was responsible for completing a list of tasks at the building. This includes repainting the balcony palisades and gutters, cleaning the gutters, modifying some of the window frames and even cladding outside the building.

“We are currently fixing a water-leak problem by waterproofing and cladding the building outside.” Bird mesh was also installed and to match the company image, the team did some general paint work.

The list of projects that Watcon completed is a testament

to the services they provide. Their painting, waterproofing and interior decorating services are being used in a variety of prominent projects around the country. The company specialises in sophisticated tenant installation and their projects range from waterproofing solutions for Eskom, multi-storey office parks and interior refurbishments for large banks.

WatconTel: 012 800 1101E-mail: Watcon@watcon.co.za

Watcon, specialists in tenant installations, is the company to call when you need to refurbish a building. They are a one-stop contractor that provides a variety of services.

The company is currently working on a project to refurbish the Mineralia Building in Visagie street, Pretoria. This is just one of the projects they are working on. Their track record speaks for itself as the Watcon team worked on several big projects in the past.

Watcon’s tenant installations at the building include everything from painting, tiling, putting in new doors and locks, and even repairing the roof. Walls & Roofs recently went on a tour to the building to have a look at what the company has already done.

Simon Legodi, the project manager, says the refurbishment commenced in October last year and will be finished soon. “The department extended the contract to include the repainting of the exterior walls.” He says the interior renovation of the building is already finished.

Watcon was responsible for putting in new carpets, installing the bird mesh and the roof renovation. They also partitioned an

office space by using glass, and saw to it that the old electrical skirting of the building was replaced.

After the project is completed, the Mineralia Building will boast with a new kitchen, as the kitchen cabinets were rebuilt by Watcon. They also fixed the woodwork of a bar in the entertainment area of the building, where social events can be held. Black marble granite was used at the front of the building to modify the entrance.

WatconTel: 012 800 1101E-mail: Watcon@watcon.co.za

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Reliable service solutions to simplify your office space!

Specialist paint applications • Partitioning • Corporate developments • Office planning

FROM STRAIGHTFORWARD RENOVATIONS TO HIGHLY SKILLED PROJECTS

WatconTel: +27 12 800 1101Fax: +27 12 800 2284E-mail: Watcon@watcon.co.za

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WALLPAPER DEsIGNs pay homage to artist

Wall Design is proud to announce a new collection of designs, Heronymus, to be part of their extensive range of products.

The Heronymus collection by BN Wall Coverings was inspired by Hieronymus Bosch, an iconic painter, and uses fantasy images and surrealistic shapes to pay homage to this artist. The outcome is amazing patterns, ingeniously incorporated into an array of avant-garde designs in outspoken colours.

The collection consists of high-end designer wallpaper comprised of layers of blown vinyl and metallic foils on a non-woven backing.

hiStoriCal baCkgroUndHieronymus Bosch (1450 to 1516) lived during a time of revolution, invention and religion. It was during this time that he mirrored and captured the spirit of that age with his radical and imaginative art.

Born as Jeroen van Aken, Hieronymus changed his name after he rose to fame. He changed his surname to Bosch in honour of his hometown, Den Bosch. His new first name was the Latin version of his hometown, Hieronymus. Bosch has been referred to as the predecessor of surrealism. His work depicted magic and fantasy with an iconic twist that commented on the progression of life around him with a fresh perspective.

Wall Design is proud to be the sole distributor of high quality wall coverings imported from the Netherlands-based company BN International. Their products are distributed throughout sub-Saharan Africa and the Indian Ocean Islands by Wall Design.

Wall Design Tel: 011 704 9780E-mail: sales@walldesign.co.zaWebsite: www.WallDesign.co.za

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NEW all-in-one LIGhTWEIGhT TILE ADhEsIVE

Multi Construction Chemicals (MCC), an established company in the industry, developed an All-in-One tile adhesive, grout and waterproofing product. The new adhesive sprouts out of the company’s successful range of lightweight adhesives. It is also in line with MCC’s vision to develop technology-driven adhesives for the tiling market.

Why All-in-One lightWeight tile adheSive?

Waterproof:• Waterproofing products such as torch-on and slurry-sealed systems are often very expensive and time-consuming. These systems are unnecessary as All-in-One is waterproof. The product is versatile as it can be applied onto interior and exterior surfaces in bathrooms, kitchens and patios. Cost/time saving:• The new product line consists of three main benefits because All-in-One is a grout, adhesive and waterproof product. Users can reap financial benefits from using it, as the product saves costs on labour. Tiling can be completed in one day rather than the industry norm, which is two to three days.superior performance: • The new technology that has been incorporated into this new range of lightweight tile adhesives offers excellent workability and has a 3-5 year manufacturer’s guarantee when instructions are followed.

All-in-One• 500 lightweight – 3-year guarantee.All-in-One• 510 lightweight – 5-year guarantee.All-in-One• 530 lightweight – 5-year guarantee.

Transport savings: • These days companies have to manage their transport budget when transporting construction products to and from sites as costs rise yearly. Up to 25% can be saved on transportation costs by using MCC’s lightweight tile adhesive, due to the fact that more bags can be transported per load and no transporting of grout is necessary.Coverage: • MCC’s All-in-One tile adhesive gives the user 12 litres wetted yield identical to the industry norm of a 20kg bag, thus giving you coverage of 3-3,5m2 per 15kg bag.

Other products within MCC’s range include concrete admixtures, curing compounds, various epoxies, joint sealants, floor hardeners, concrete grouting and many more. MCC has branches in Gauteng, Polokwane, Rustenburg and Durban.

Multi Construction ChemicalsTel: 011 864 4654Fax: 011 864 4406E-mail: sales@mccsa.co.zaWebsite: www.mccsa.co.za

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While developing this new range of products, MCC took the strength, durability and cost of the adhesives into consideration to create this new

technology-driven product range.

Why lightWeight tile adheSiveS?

100% active.• Tile adhesives are commonly packaged in 20kg bags. Over 60% of the product usually consists of the filler (sand). Clients who switch to MCC’s lightweight adhesives, will receive a quality product as their 15kg bags contain less than 3% of sand, giving the user more active adhesive that increases the strength and adhesion. MCC’s 15kg bag offers the same coverage than that of a 20kg bag. Technically superior. • The new technology incorporated into the lightweight adhesives offers excellent workability and comes with a 3-5 year guarantee when the manufacturer’s instructions are followed. Improved workability.• The adhesive has a better spread rate. The spread is also more consistent than outdated tile adhesives. Lightweight tile adhesive is also ideal to use in high-rise buildings where the weight of carrying 20kg bags becomes a problem. Using lightweight tile adhesives will also improve time management when workers are carrying the bags up and down multi-storey buildings. The product is also ideal for adhering tiles to suspended concrete slabs where structural weight is an issue.Transport savings.• The cost of transport expenses becomes a challenge when transporting construction products to and from sites. Clients can cut transport costs with 25% by using lightweight tile adhesives because more bags can be transported per load.

improving bond Strength and CoverageThe MCC 500 Lightweight is a general-based tile adhesive which can be used for fixing ceramic tiles to various substrates.

The MCC 510 Lightweight is a product that provides a professional finish and is technically superior to MCC 500 Lightweight. The MCC 510 Lightweight is recommended for

technically-challenging jobs due to its improved bond strength. The MCC 530 Lightweight is a high-strength tile adhesive for

fixing wall and floor tiles onto substrates. This product is ideal for use when fixing porcelain, granite and other non-porous tiles. The MCC 530 Lightweight is highly recommended when working on difficult tiling jobs. The huge success of this product enables it to come with a 5-year guarantee.

expertly graftedMCC’s highly competent staff works in a world-class laboratory. Their staff have researched and produced well-known products for the mining, building and concrete construction industries over the years. The laboratory is active in maintaining finished product quality in accordance with ISO standards.

MCC has been in the industry for 25 years and their products come with product guarantees. “Taking tiling to the future means staying on top of trends and remaining on the forefront of technology, while consistently supplying quality products,” says Clive Hamman, the sales director at MCC.

The company’s products include admixtures, concrete-curing, epoxies, joint sealant, grouting and more. MCC has branches in Gauteng, Polokwane, Rustenburg and Durban.

Multi Construction ChemicalsTel: 011 864 4654Fax: 011 864 4406E-mail: sales@mccsa.co.zaWebsite: www.mccsa.co.za

The new range of lightweight, cement-based adhesives, developed by Multi Construction Chemicals (MCC), should be your first choice when installing tiles. MCC is the first company in South Africa to develop lightweight adhesives that offer architects, developers, quantity surveyors and contractors a superior quality and cheaper solution when installing tiles.

sWITCh TOLIGhTWEIGhT,CEMENT-BAsEDADhEsIVEs

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Company offers a VARIETy of plasterboards for interior design

Lafarge plasterboard “specific systems” are tested for fire resistance and can be evaluated on acoustic properties, while it is also designed to meet the needs

and requirements of project specifics. The plasterboard is complemented by high performance products, specifically designed for thermal and acoustic applications, and to provide impact, moisture and fire resistance.

The Lafarge fire-check plasterboard has exfoliated vermiculite and fibreglass strands in the gypsum core to increase fire resistance. It is available in 12,5mm and 15mm thicknesses (width of 1 200mm and lengths of 2 700mm, 3 000mm and 3 600mm).

The fire-check board is recommended for areas where additional fire resistance is required, like kitchens, record and filing rooms, fire escapes and specified office partitions. The boards offer a one- or two-hour rating as tested by the SABS, depending on the system. Fire resistance can be increased by the number of boards and the thickness of boards. Fire-check boards are differentiated by their covering pink paper liner.

Lafarge moisture-check plasterboard has silicone in the

gypsum core and is suitable for use in wet areas such as showers, bathrooms, kitchens and protected external applications. It can also be used in areas where ceramic wall tiling is required. This plasterboard is not suitable for protection against continuous dampness or as a base for cement rendering.

The product is lined on both sides with a distinctive green water-repellent paper for ease of identification. Do not use the board in areas where it is exposed to extreme temperatures, as it is not suitable for use in temperatures above 52°C, and must not be subjected to freezing temperatures without the risk of damage. The board is available in 12,5mm thickness and the newly introduced 15mm thickness with a width of 1 200mm and lengths of 2 700mm, 3 000mm and 3 600mm.

Lafarge Gypsum South AfricaTel: 011 389 4500Fax: 011 864 6816Website: www.lafarge.co.zawww.autospec.com

The company offers a variety of plasterboards.

Lafarge Gypsum plasterboard consists of an aerated gypsum core encased in, and firmly bonded on both sides, with specified plasterboard paper liner. This plasterboard is referred to by Lafarge Gypsum as a standard and technical product. The board is manufactured on a modern automatic process line, with the supervision of highly experienced engineers and chemists.

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What iS pft ritmo poWerCoat?PFT RITMO Powercoat is a self mixing and projecting unit for drywall and ceiling skimming. Although there are other brands doing skimming, the major difference is the patented Aftermixer design. The Aftermixer ensures grinding of the product after it has been mixed with water, removing clots and big grains from the product to deliver an ultra smooth and perfect skimming product.

traditional: manUal laboUrIn the past, mixing plaster was a labour intensive process, causing much waste, a lot of dirt and variable thickness on the walls. Mixing was done by hand which caused variation in the mix quality, and then application to surfaces had to be done by hand causing material consumption variation and a lot of waste.

noW With poWerCoat, the proCeSS iS made Simple and preCiSeToday, the task of mixing plaster can be performed without hassles, quickly and efficiently. Simply connect the Powercoat to a water barrel or running water from a tap. Set the water flow once to the desired material mix and start spraying.

Due to this simplified process, the speed of application is increased dramatically and a team of 4 men can complete more than 250m2 per day. The RITMO Powercoat controls the flow of material and, with the unique spray gun, the plaster material can be applied to a 1mm thickness under controlled conditions.

advantageS of thiS methodReduced set up time•

Reduced waste•

Control over material thickness on surfaces•

Simple and easy cleaning•

Reaches up to 3.2 m in height with no scaffolding needed•

aCCeSSorieS available The special spray gun, 1 500mm in length, which is part of the standard equipment, saves time, money and labour. Using the spray gun, materials can be applied to ceilings located at a height of up to approx. 3,2 m directly from the floor, eliminating the need to put up a scaffold.

The RITMO Powercoat can also be easily converted to a standard RITMO for the application of MP75 gypsum plaster for brick wall and concrete walling.

For more information and demonstrations, please visit our show room at 2 Pentagon Park, Capital Hill, Midrand. Corner of Le Roux and Morkel Close (next to the old Pretoria rd).

Construction WarehouseTel: 083 445 3085E-mail: info@cwhouse.co.zaWebsite: www.cwhouse.co.za

Wall skimming made quick and easy with machine applicationsThe machine-application of fillers with the new PFT RITMO Powercoat will revolutionise interior construction; no more mixing by hand and wasting material due to manual application.

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PFT RITMO

The innovation in mixing and spraying technologyMachine application of smoothing cement that revolutionises interior work

Wall

Ceiling

STANDARD EQUIPMENT

Spraygun 1500mm with air support and

electronic control

230V

Call Riaan Alberts - 083 445 3085Email: info@cwhouse.co.zawww.cwhouse.co.za

Applications• Full-surface filling of drywall

and concrete walls

• Filling of primed raw ceilings

• Finish filling of walls

• Filling as preparation for

high-quality painting

• Surface quality Q3 and Q4

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When you deal with dry walling and ceilings you will most likely know that architects keep improving their designs to keep up with trends.

Therefore the complexities of designs continuously become more demanding. Construction companies need to keep up with changing times and the PFT Boardmaster is proving to be an answer to convert complex and designs to a millimeter accuracy, whilst reducing manufacturing time and production cost.

introdUCtion to pft boardmaSter: The PFT Boardmaster is especially developed for cutting and milling plasterboard. It can either be used on site or in the workshop, where the parts can be completely finished or prepared for gluing on site. Possibilities for its use are endless, as it is easy to operate and no programming skills are required. A magnetic measuring system with digital displays allows for the precise positioning for every cut. It has a manual movement to cut with digital accuracy to 0.1mm.

The Boardmaster is also a dust-free machine with the dust

extraction system at the bottom of the machine. This extraction system ensures that work can be done

quickly and accurately and also in open areas without the risk of covering the entire room with dust. The fast cutting times ensure a huge cost saving whilst the cutting accuracy ensures a dramatic reduction in waste. With the mill and fold ability, corners and bends become an easy task.

No matter if it is walls or ceilings, duct linings or fire resistive walls, columns, lamellar or other cut-outs -the application fields of the PFT Boadrmaster XL are numerous and it has plenty of advantages. The Boardmaster can save you up to 70% of your working time.

Visit our show room at 2 Pentagon Park, Capital Hill, Midrand. Corner of Le Roux and Morkel Close (next to the old Pretoria rd).

Construction WarehouseTel: 083 445 3085E-mail: info@cwhouse.co.zaWebsite: www.cwhouse.co.za

WallS (above)• Flexible connection of noise insulation and/or fire-resistant systems.• Wall connections.• Expansion joints.• Curves.• Round and segmental arches.• Timber installation.• Fanlight walls.• Sliding door linings.• Room corners (also in round form).• Alcoves and recesses.• Wall openings & passages.• Lamellar cut-outs (e.g. lowered base).

CUt-oUtS (beloW)• Cut-out for sanitary equipment (with stencil).• Arch segments.• Various openings.

dUCt liningS (left)• Duct linings.• Ventilation duct - angular or round.• Storage areas and shelves.

CeilingS (right)• Expansion joints.• Ceiling connection.• Perforated ceilings, cutting of perforated boards, ceiling blinds and grading.• Indirect lighting.• Canvas ceilings.• Light bars - mock coverings.• Inspection flap.

ColUmnS and lamellar CUt-oUtS (left)• Canted columns plus basement.• Pilaster and fluting, lamellar cut-outs (up to 3 x 12.5 mm resp. 40 mm in total).

edging and edgeS With roUnd bar (above, right)By the cutting of the gypsum boards and the application of round bars there is no need to apply edge protection and trowel plasters. The processing can be done with significantly less mess and in no extra time.

Drywall cutting revolutionised

appliCation fieldSthe boardmaSter iS ideal for USe on:

PFT BOARDMASTER XLThe revolution in dry wall construction

www.pftboardmaster.com

The portable board cutting tableEasy, fast and with millimetre precision perfect pre-cuts

and V-millings with the practical board cutting table

Call Riaan Alberts - 083 445 3085Email: info@cwhouse.co.zawww.cwhouse.co.za

• Duct lining • Edging and edges with round bar

APPLICATION FIELDS PFT BOARDMASTER

Information-DVD available!

The revolution in dry wall

construction. Save up to 70%

of your time thanks to the

cutting wonder!

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According to Plascon, the possibilities are endless when you express yourself with colour. Plascon’s Palette for 2012 is inspired by the different influences that we

draw on to do so.With the eye on global trends and a mind or the local market,

Plascon explored a number of different colour trends and settled on four key directions for the coming year. These are expressed as four different themes, namely Memory, Expression, Mystery and Origins.

The colours range from bold brights to stripped-back basics and everything in-between. The company feels that it is how these themes are interpreted that really counts.

memoryIn design, links to the past are always evident, although the focus shifts from era to era. This year the global eye has settled on the measured and stately aesthetic typical of the Georgian period.

According to Plascon, people are seeing a considered use of soft pastels coming to the fore that are grounded by neutrals and darker tones. This theme is great for bringing a sophisticated

sense of romance into a room and is complemented well by antiqued period pieces.

The elements include fluid lines, sheer layers, antiqued finishes, soft pastels and delicate lace.

The colours in this theme on Plascon’s palette include Clover Patch, Ballet Cream, River Reeds and Overcast Days.

COLOUR TRENDs for 2012Written by Theresa van Tonder

Walls & Roof’s Theresa van Tonder attended Decorex this year to get the scoop on the new colour trends for 2012.

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expreSSionWith a number of important events on the cards this year and in 2012, most importantly the Roal wedding and the Londo olympics a strong theme of celebration is making itself known.

This comes through in patriotic Union Jack inspired red, white and blue.

White is often the base for this theme, with bold, uncomplicated use of bright colour to make a statement.

The elements include white with brights, smooth and flat, crisp and defined, purposeful, abstract geometric patterns and colour blocking.

The colours in this theme on Plascon’s palette include My Magnolia, Lobster Red, Baked Earth and Forest Found.

mySteryWith a sophisticated yet nuanced feeling, the Mystery trend combines neutrals with highlights like rich plums, moody blues and greys to give an enticing sense of depth.

This colour direction is complimented by furniture with clean, uncomplicated lines. People will be seeing graphics that take their cues from plush organic prints. This theme has many contrasts, playing with accent colours for maximum impact while retaining an underlying simplicity.

The elements include monochromatic with highlights, shaded plantscapes, high contrast, deep texture and clean lines.

The colours in this theme on Plascon’s palette include Octavius, Dusk of Day, Blue Frost and Aged Aloe.

originSBack to basics is making a bigger than ever comeback. This is expressed in a love of raw textures, patterns and materials from ethnic-inspired geometrics to unpretentious wooden furniture.

Simplicity is the key to this theme, with stripped-back yet bold décor expressions. Ochre yellows and light-wood inspired browns give an earthy base note to the theme. It moves between light neutrals and blue-grey top notes.

The elements include primitive, nature-inspired, feathers and hide, linens and cottons, monochromatic and true to origin.

The colours in this theme on Plascon’s palette include Light Reflection, Resplendent, Black Beard and Lime Miss.

There you have it, Plascon’s four new palettes for a more colourful 2012, consisting of the latest global colour trends infused with the flavour of life in South Africa.

Walls & Roofs would like to give thanks and acknowledgement to Plascon for the information they contributed to this article.

Plascon NuroofTel: 086 020 4060E-mail: advice@plascon.co.zaWebsite: www.plascon.co.zawww.autospec.com

Cemcrete offers a sleek variety of decorative coatings that are both trendy and timeless. Finishing interior wall surfaces is made exciting when their product range comes into play. Select from different textures, gorgeous colour ranges and overall effects from one of their wall coatings to create the perfect finishing on your vertical surfaces.

The company supplies superior quality wall coatings that can be used for both interior or exterior surfaces, as well as new or renovated surfaces. They

eliminate the need for re-plastering most surfaces and can be applied successfully to polystyrene and dry walling. Cemcrete’s cement-based products are also extremely durable and easy to maintain. They may be used internally, externally or in bathrooms and kitchens.

Cemcrete’s SatinCrete is a beautifully smooth suede-like finish that creates subtle colour variation on the surface of your wall. It is available in a superb colour range to suit the design style of your space. The colour range and general appeal of SatinCrete make it a favourable choice in kitchens, bathrooms, bedrooms and living spaces. The adaptability of the product to surrounding design styles enhances a space to create a beautiful base to which removable elements may be complimented.

CemWash is a luxuriously textured wall coating which may become a focal point in your design. Its rough texture allows you to decide the pattern in which it is applied. From formal brush strokes to decadent swirls, CemWash brings a true unique element into your design, whether inside or in the garden.

CemCote is an extremely versatile wall coating that offers subtle texture and colour variation. The product adapts to indoor and outdoor surfaces, and its application gives you the freedom of design with various brush strokes. Try to angle-grind the plaster into blocks, and paint with CemCote Grey to create a trendy and modern off-shutter concrete that looks like the real thing.

DecoCrete is a unique product that can be applied to excessive thick surfaces to allow for detailed carving work. Use DecoCrete to create character “pieces” on wall surfaces. Like all Cemcrete’s cement-based products, DecoCrete is fire-resistant and therefore perfect to create stunning fireplace surrounds.

With the variety of choice that Cemcrete has to offer, you can keep up with trends and incorporate a classic look to create the perfect base in your design theme. Visit Cemcrete’s showroom at 227 Jan Smuts Avenue, Parktown North, for trendy design inspiration. Or see their Ideas Centres at 8 Telford Street, Industria, Johannesburg, and 1 Franschhoek Crescent, Panorama, Cape Town.

CemcreteTel: 011 474 2415 Fax: 011 474 2416 E-mail: info@cemcrete.co.za Website: www.cemcrete.co.za

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BE CREATIVEwith wall coatings

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With this in mind, Cedar Paint developed a range of decorative products, which includes a start-to-finish solution, called the Future Friendly range in

six different colours and textures. This is a water-based range that is lead-free and comes with a five-year quality guarantee. Along with colours are the textures which enhance the colour experience.

environmentally-friendly prodUCt range

The Cedar Paint team believes companies who cherish the environment will be seen in a good light. Ultimately the consumer will begin to support

their efforts. Cedar Paint, a 40-year-old South African paint manufacturer, has steadily grown its market share. This is to the

advantage of their valued partners who include customers, suppliers, employees, shareholders and the

environment. To achieve this, Cedar Paint created the Natures Coat range

of preparation products, as well as three different types of top-coat finishes.

The Natures Coat range was sent to Synthomer for independent testing. It is considered as a premium type range. The Soft Sheen is an inside and outside paint that withstood 10 000 scrubs. This range is very affordable for a Future Friendly range. Cedar Paint stands firmly on their values by not overpricing their Future Friendly range just because it is environmentally-friendly. “We provide consumers with a product that doesn’t compromise on quality and yet comes at an affordable price. This may inspire consumers to go green,” says Shane Weeden, the national sales and marketing manager of Cedar Paint.

The range of products comes in awesome packaging. Once applied, the product with its different textures looks stunning on inside and outside walls. Makro stores nationwide have the exclusive opportunity to sell the range until the end of December. Cedar Paint urges customers to touch, feel and experience the colours and textures for themselves.

Cedar PaintTel: 0861 233 277 E-mail: cedar15@argent.co.zaWebsite: www.cedarpaint.co.za

Be passionate about colour“Colour plays an important role in our lives, although we don’t always realise the influence it has on our daily lives. There is no physical scale to measure the colour an individual sees, making it impossible to determine what colour a person will see. Colour is light and light changes colour,” says Dr Van Aardt du Preez South Africa’s Colour Specialist.

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Over 53 000 flocked to Decorex Johannesburg, which was held at the Gallagher Convention Centre

on 5-9 August, to observe the latest trends and trades in interior design.

Decorex Johannesburg is the country’s largest trade and consumer exhibition for interior design, décor and fine finishes in Southern Africa and marked its 18th year of trade with the theme Beauty and the basics.

Exhibitors got the chance to introduce their products to experts and amateurs alike. The display halls were decorated with a range of colours, textures, styles and innovative products.

The organisers of the event brought together a star line-up of leading brands, emerging talent and top trends at the show. Designers got the chance to talk to customers in their own voices, showing off their products in clay, porcelain, mosaic, paint, textiles and various other materials.

It was an open season for trend hunters to categorize their favourite designs and products on the “what’s-hot-or-not” lists. Visitors to the show not only got the chance to keep up with international trends, but also experienced the different cultures of South Africa that came through in the designs and products. Handmade South-African products from tiles to paintings, and even handcrafted statues of local icon Nelson Mandela, were found amongst the products on display.

The South African Handmade Collection, including the new Gabi Gabi textile showcase – an initiative by the Department of Trade and Industry- went all out in promoting local products. All nine provinces were represented in the floor space, filling each exhibition with local crafters from every province.

With 700 high-end exhibitors and a flourish of new show features, there were many opportunities to discover your inner decorator during the show. The main sponsor, Plascon, also revealed the colour trends for 2012 with creative room-settings by Laurence Brick, Tonic, Goet and A Point.

For more information visit Decorex online at www.decorex.co.za

It’s all in the detailWritten by Nichelle Lemmer

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architecture andexterior finishes

vol 12.6

Everyone is well aware of the fact that when you evaluate a building, its exterior is the first thing you see. Because of this fact, the exterior aesthetics has

gained a lot of importance. The focus has shifted to make a building look good and yet still be functional.

Ornamentation without function is futile. Over recent years the trends have changed, which has changed the definition of ornamentation. According to new trends, ornamentation is function.

Architecture is the art of connecting spaces and connecting the interior to the exterior.

New environmental considerations have caused designers to take a deeper look into the skin of a building in terms of its insulation, reflection qualities and radiation factors. Many architects feel that these new restrictions provide a certain kind of liberation.

As a result of this new trend, new facade technologies have been developed. Stainless steel clips allow for thin sheets to be utilized as exterior covering. Various materials have been discovered for cladding of the exterior facades of a building.

The fact of the matter is that cladding is architecture. Cladding is a kind of finish done with a specific material to achieve a certain function or add an element to the aesthetics of the building.

Wall finiSheSThe exterior wall surface of a building forms the skin of the building. These surfaces or building components are commonly referred to as cladding.

The purpose of the wall-cladding coverings is to provide a building with a weather-resistant exterior covering. The exterior building covering should be designed and constructed to prevent the accumulation of water within the wall assemblies and cavities.

There are many different types, styles and material choices for exterior wall coverings. The wall cladding also provides aesthetic and architectural appeal to the building’s exterior.

Exterior wall claddings include the following:Wood products including hardboard, panels, shingles and •

shakes, plywood, plank siding, orient-strand board and clapboard sidingMasonry products such as brick, stone, simulated stone, poured •

concrete, concrete panels and concrete blocks.

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Vinyl siding.•

Fibre-cement siding.•

Metal products such as steel or aluminum siding.•

Stucco over-wood framing or concrete block.•

Synthetic stucco (EIFS or exterior Insulation finish systems).•

Slate or clay tiles.•

With every type of exterior wall cladding comes various types of characteristics associated with the installation. These can include durability, appearance, cost differentials and lifespan.

Factors to be considered when looking at exterior wall cladding include:

Weather-tight: Firstly one should look at the climatic •

environment where the building is being built. Does the exterior wall cladding have the ability to resist water, snow, wind, sun and other climate conditions?Strength: Does this type of exterior wall cladding offer •

resistance to mechanical damage?

Structural properties: Does this type of cladding offer the •

capabilities of carrying the structural properties, or will the structure of the building impact on the lifespan of this specific exterior wall cladding?Insulating value.•

Maintenance requirements.•

Common failure modes.•

The best wall claddings are highly resistant to wind, water, vermin entry and mechanical damage.

Ideally exterior wall claddings are cost relative, easy to install, provides excellent security and cosmetic appeal, have a long economic life and provides good insulation qualities.

Bearing in mind the aforesaid qualities, it is important to plan your project to meet all the considerations.

It is very common that various types of exterior wall claddings are more dominant and popular in certain geographic regions. The type of exterior wall cladding may be related to the availability of materials and labor in that specific location coupled with characteristics of the various wall surfaces. Moisture intrusion through the exterior cladding and into the building envelope will greatly impact on the durability of the structure as well as the longevity of the finish and the health of its occupants.

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Designed by Cloud 9 Architects, led by Enric Ruiz-Geli, this building blends old structures with new information, utilising an inflatable smart facade

that regulates sunlight and temperature for the structure. As one of the first steps in bringing new technology to this debilitated district, the Media-TIC building seems to be the perfect start.

This futuristic application has transformed an abandoned warehouse into a sustainable design by wrapping the structure in a temperature-controlling ethylene tetra fluoro ethylene (ETFE) skin that inflates and deflates with the effect of sunlight to regulate the interior climate. The project’s photovoltaic roof, ETFE skin, rainwater recycling and district cooling makes it almost nett zero, reducing carbon emissions by 95%.

The building’s inflatable southern facade is segmented into organic triangular shapes that mesh with the surrounding nature-inspired architecture of Antoni Gaudi.

The membrane encases a former warehouse frame and is made of ETFE. The air chambers include solar-powered sensors that

cause them to contract and inflate in accordance with the amount of sunlight that they receive.

In summer, the membrane acts as a sunscreen, filtering heat and UV rays by 85%. The filter is created by inflating the chambers with a nitrogen mix, which blocks solar rays and creates cooling shade. In winter, the membrane opens to soak up solar rays, maximising the transmission of light and heat to the interior.

The Media-TIC’s roof is covered with a garden and flecked with photovoltaic cells for solar collection. To save on non-potable water consumption, Cloud 9 has installed a rainwater-collection system. A giant cistern stores the water, which is then distributed into the building’s non-potable plumbing system as well as into a district cooling system, which helps to air-condition the building with cool water.

Commissioned by the Consortium of the Zona Franca de Barcelona with a 28-million Euro budget, this revolutionary building is lined with sensors that allow the architects to monitor its energy-efficiency.

The building’s offices will be used by science and technology companies of all sizes, while its open lobby will be used for public exhibitions, workshops and events.

The city of Barcelona and Ruiz-Geli want 22@Barcelona to transform from an abandoned industrial hub into a centre for technology and information, and they want the new district to be “energy autonomous”.

The new factories and offices will make energy as they use them, and the Media-TIC building’s inflatable “skin” was designed to fit in with Ruiz-Geli’s famous fluid designs.

The interior is a place for people to think, meet and create. The main floor is an open public space. This was made possible by a new steel-structure design that allows weight to be transferred to the outer beams in the building, leaving the inner structure almost completely free of structural elements.

The ETFE skin allows light to filter through, but shades the occupants from direct sunlight, reducing the UV rays by 85%. The skin is also “anti-adherent”, which means there is little need for cleaning the exterior.

Incredible inflatable BUBBLE BUILDING in Barcelona

The Poblenou industrial district in Barcelona fell into decline towards the end of the 20th century, leaving old warehouses standing in the area with little activity. The city is now trying to revitalise the district and has started a test area called 22@Barcelona, where one of the new projects is the Media-TIC building. Written by Dave Soons

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The Stone Portfolio Group, comprising of Colonial Stone and Inca Stone, has recently launched a number of new products as well as opening new

showrooms in Fourways and Edenvale in addition to their main showroom in Honeydew, Johannesburg. More satellite showrooms are in the pipeline.

Colonial Stone has launched a number of new coping stones as accessories to their numerous flagstone ranges, a new range of flamed granite flagstones as well as a range of flamed granite cobblestones particularly suitable for modern contemporary architecture.

In addition, the group, under Inca Stone, has launched a range of decorative accessories to complement their 15 ranges of cladding, allowing for sophisticated architectural detailing of residential and commercial application. These include decorative plinth detail, window sills, pillar tops, key stones and a variety of allied products.

Inca Stone’s range of lightweight cladding has a greening component and Inca is a member of the Green Building Council. A new ultra-lightweight range of cladding will be launched in the next two months, which is an exciting new development to the expanding stable of products being developed.

This wide range of new products can be viewed at both the Honeydew and Fourways showrooms.

Inca Stone VeneersTel: 011 794 9737E-mail:Website: www.incastone.co.za

sTONE PORTfOLIO GROUP launches new products and showrooms

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The secret behind a perfect finish is good preparation. If one skimps on this, the finish you put on top won’t last as long as it should, nor would it look as good.

With this in mind, choosing the right product to use for preparation can be a daunting task. According to Dulux, the FixitTM range provides a variety of products with easy-to-use, pre-décor solutions.

Smoothing over roUgh and Uneven plaSterSmoothOverTM can be used to smooth rough and uneven plaster. It can be applied to both interior- and exterior walls, and skims up to five millimeters thick without sagging. Setting in four hours to a hard finish, SmoothOverTM adheres to plaster and plasterboard regulations. This product is also alkali and weather-resistant. SmoothOverTM comes as ready-mixed and priming is not required.

Stop riSing dampWater-based DampShieldTM stops rising damp. This product is low in VOC’s and odour, as well as easy to clean. It offers adhesion to cementitious substrates and protects against top-coat peeling caused by damp. It is a quick-drying top coat that can be applied on the same day. Only two coats are required and DampShieldTM can be applied to substrates

containing up to 50% moisture levels. It can be used both in- and outdoors to prevent penetrating damp.

the fixittm rangeOther products in the range include various crack-fillers, expanding foam ideal for filling and sealing awkward gaps, as well as quick-set cement for the repair of any masonry surface. Anchoring epoxy can be used for holes that are irregular, damaged or too big to fit a wall plug. The FixitTM sugar soap powder and liquid, as well as the brush cleaner degreaser, act as powerful cleaning agents for painted surfaces and paint brushes. The less-mess paint stripper and the double-strength paint remover are effective paint strippers.

Dulux TradeTel: 011 861 1000E-mail: info@dulux.co.zaWebsite: www.duluxtrade.co.zawww.autospec.com

Advice for a great PAINT fINIshWritten by Theresa van Tonder

SmoothOverTM can be used to smooth rough and uneven plaster. It can be applied to both interior- and exterior walls, and skims up to five millimeters thick without sagging.

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cleaning your building’s exteriorsyour no.1ceilspray offers a unique service that is helping a range of clients maintain the appearance of any structure.

Using various methods and chemicals, Ceilspray can clean any type of substrate. The company can also assist you with high access cleaning and maintenance programs.

clean tough exteriors with easeHard-to-clean building exteriors, such as sand stone and other types of surfaces that can’t be cleaned with harsh chemical cleaners, can now easily be cleaned with Cleispray’s Whirlforce Systems. Not only do our high-pressure systems make the process quick and easy – it is also more efficient.

types of surfaces:• Parking garages • Oil stations • Factory floors • Driveways

large surface area coverage: The Whirlforce Systems are able to cover large areas, ranging from 300m to 1000m) at a time, making it your most effective surface cleaning solution.High pressure nozzle: Uncompromised cleaning thanks to an angled, rotating high-pressure nozzle.

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In the waterproofing industry, there are many types of protective finishes and applications that need to be handled and observed by professionals.

With time, the exterior of a house is subjected to a lot of wear and tear. Faded patches and the peeling of paint is a sign that it is high time to repaint these protective barriers of your home.

Maintaining the exterior and protecting it is very important as the exterior protects your house, faces all the sunny, rainy and harsh weather conditions, and defines the mood of your home.

bitUm – iSrael’S leading Sealing and inSUlation prodUCtS manUfaCtUrer For over 50 years, BITUM Company has been developing and manufacturing sealing and insulating products as follows:

Sealing and waterproofing products: Two-component spray •

on polymer-modified bituminous waterproofing material, polymer-modified bitumen mastics (water-based and solvent-based), and advanced acrylic coating for roofs and external walls and silicon-based coatings.

Iluz Brothers SA is the sole distributor of the world’s leading waterproofing systems in South Africa. Their innovative technologies will revolutionize the SA market.

ilUz brotherS Waterproofing SyStemSThe following is a partial list of projects executed:

Gautrain•

Tiber •

Standard Bank•

Eskom Mega Watt Park•

Bombela Civil joint venture•

With years of experience and a formidable knowledge of waterproofing solutions, Iluz Brothers undertake to satisfactorily meet clients’ waterproofing needs in a professional and highly skilled manner.

With a team of two trained men and expert technology, they are able to complete 2 000m2 per day. Iluz Brothers’ waterproofing systems can assist in any waterproofing needs a person may have.

If you ask most people what comes to mind when they think of waterproofing, bitumen torch-on is a system that South Africa has been using comfortably. Iluz Brothers launched the three main products in August 2009 and it has become a new favourite for architects, quantity surveys and construction companies.

reCommended prodUCt: mUltigUmMultigum’s high elasticity, together with its strength, allow for a high bridging capacity over infrastructural cracks, as well as for sealing membrane continuity. The product’s elasticity is also preserved in very low and high temperatures, thus ensuring high resistance in extreme temperatures without cracking. The greatest advantage of Multigum is its spraying application. Speedy labour, together with excellent total sealing results. Multigum’s white finish has the insulation properties to cool down the

temperature within the area that has been sprayed up to two to four degrees cooler.

reCommended prodUCt: maStigUmMastigum has outstanding elongation properties of over 1 300%. It fills every crack, bridges every gap and can endure extreme temperatures without any loss of quality. The spraying application ensures full adhesion to every dent and crevice. Mastigum particles get into every space and perfectly fill it, providing 100% waterproofing. Mastigum becomes an integral part of the surface, fusing into one entity.

reCommended prodUCt: flexigUmFlexigum is a two-component elastomeric sealing material of the highest quality, which is applied by spraying. Flexigum is based on a special bitumen emulsion, enriched with high concentration polymeric latex of the highest quality. The polymeric latex endows Flexigum with an especially high elasticity and resistance to a wide range of temperatures.

methodThe Flexigum method consists of a revolutionary, non-toxic cold spray, which results in the lamination of air pollution, reduces the risk of fire, and any damages or problems arising from typical hot asphalt applications. The spraying action is accomplished by using a simple procedure. Emulsion and coagulating agents are sprayed simultaneously through two nozzles in the spray gun. Coagulation is instant. The water separates forming in a flexible homogeneous film.

flexigUm featUreS Seamless, multi-layer, flexible, durable, safe and stable. •

The product carries an ISO 9001 certification and is eco-friendly •

because it is water-based.

environmental Commitment – green materialIluz Brothers has undertaken to supply and install waterproof technology that is environmentally-friendly to confirm their commitment to minimize any negative impact on the environment. Their spray equipment runs on a diesel system, which reduces the carbon footprint compared to a petrol system.

Their materials are all environmentally-friendly, as the materials are water-based, odourless and non-toxic. Some of their products carry insulation benefits that when in use on buildings, allow the end-user to contribute to a reduction in the user’s carbon footprint because of the product’s insulating properties.

All their products are applied via a spray system which is effective in eliminating wastage, spills or any situation where you would have any kind of environmental damage that would need to be rehabilitated or chemically cleaned.

Their products are all cold-spray formulations, thus reducing the need for standard industry gas-driven torch-on emissions and the related hazards thereof. All their products are water-based, non-toxic, inflammable and highly flexible and their spray-on technology allows for a seamless application. So, when waterproofing comes to mind, think Iluz Brothers.

Iluz Brother’s Waterproofing Systems Tel: 011 262 4000/1/2 E-mail: reception@iluz.co.za Website: www.iluz.co.za

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Products application consultation

We specialize inSpray on systems

Damp proofing

Structural concrete repairs

Roof, wall & floor coating

Vertical landscaping walls

Joint sealing

Gutters

Green product

F R E E Q U O T A T I O N S 1 0 Y E A R G U A R A N T E E

011 262 4000

info@bitumproof.co.za • www.bitumproof.co.za

WaterproofingMinimum work. Maximum Waterproofing

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According to Andries Marais, Chryso’s quality and reaserch & development manager, the accreditation applies to all three Chryso plants in South Africa:

Jet Park, Durban and Cape Town, as well as the company’s warehouse in Port Elizabeth.

OHSAS 18001 has been created by several of the world’s leading national standards bodies, certification organisations and specialist consultancies, and requires stringent safety policies and procedures. Some of the creators include the SABS, National Standards Authority of Ireland, Standards Australia and the British Standards Institution.

“One of the main aims in formulating the Occupational Health and Safety (OHSAS) management system was to try and remove confusion in the workplace from the proliferation of certifiable OHSAS specifications applying all over the world. OHSAS 18001 accreditation holds several benefits for companies that manage to attain its strict standards. It minimises risk to employees, improves

existing OHSAS management systems and demonstrates internally – and also to the local and export market – Chryso SA’s strict adherence to health and safety issues,” explains Marais.

OHSAS 18001 standards have been adopted by Chryso SA’s holding company, the Materis Group based in France, for all its global operations.

DDT Risk Management was the consultant for Chryso SA’s accreditation bid and the certification audits were carried out by Alpha Certification Services.

Chryso SA, currently in its 15th year of operations in South Africa, was awarded ISO9001:2000 accreditation in 2005.

Chryso SATel: 011 395 9700E-mail: hannes@chrysosa.co.zaWebsite: www.chryso.com

Global health and safety ACCREDITATION for south African chemical solution company Chryso South Africa has obtained the internationally respected OHSAS 18001 health and safety management system accreditation.

An interior view of the Chryso SA operations in Jet Park. The company has recently successfully adopted the globally respected OHSAS 18001 health and safety management system.

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Sika’s CarboDur plates were the solution to Natalspruit Hospital’s structural defects after it was recently discovered that air-conditioning duct holes had been cast in the incorrect places on alterations made during construction of the newly-built Natalspruit Hospital in Vosloorus on Johannesburg’s East Rand.

Sika’s CarboDur plates have been the choice of specifiers and contractors for structural strengthening on a vast number of construction projects, including many high

profile structures such as the Gautrain project and the Civitas Building.

Since Cross Con, one of Gauteng’s most qualified applicators, had used Sika’s CarboDur plates to complete Marlboro Station for the Gautrain, they were Sika’s preferential contractors for specialised repair work on this R1,5-billion project. A total of 2 412m of CarboDur S512 plates (50mm x 1,2mm) were used to reinforce the area cavaties originally created for air-conditioning ducts in the concrete slab, as these holes now posed inadequate structural depth.

Sika CarboDur plates are pultruded-carbon fibre-reinforced polymer laminates designed for strengthening concrete, timber and masonry structures. These plates are bonded onto the structure as an external reinforcement using Sikadur-30 epoxy adhesive.

The CarboDur system is used for strengthening in situations such as changes in the structural system, load increases, where structural elements have been damaged, and for design or construction defects resulting in inadequate reinforcement and structural depth, such as at Natalspruit Hospital. These laminates have very high strength, excellent durability, are non-corrosive, lightweight and provide fatigue resistance.

The cavities were first cleaned using Sika’s Colma Cleaner (30 litres) before Sikadur-30 (1 207kg), a solvent-free, thixotropic structural two-component adhesive, based on epoxy resins and a special filler, was applied. The advantages of using Sikadur-30 are that it is easy to mix and apply, no primer is needed, it offers

high creep resistance under a permanent load, and it provides excellent adhesion to CarboDur plates and other surfaces.

Another of Sika’s high performance products was also the preferred choice for repairing the edges of the concrete slab, which had been broken by the diamond-drilling contractor. Sikadur 43ZA (113 litres), a solvent-free, three-part, epoxy-based repair and filling mortar was used to repair these edges. This high-strength material is used as bedding or underfilling mortar to repair horizontal concrete surfaces. It offers rapid, shrinkage-free hardening, high mechanical strength and curing is not affected by high humidity. Following this application, Sika CarboDur was installed to complete the reinforcement process.

As the Natalspruit Hospital site is situated in a location, main contractors Basil Read were obligated to employ local labour. This caused challenges to the ongoing delivery of the project deadlines due to the occurrence of regular strikes, resulting in many delays, not only for the main contractor, but for all the sub-contractors too.

Sika South AfricaTel: 031 792 6500Email: headoffice@za.sika.comWebsite: www.sika.co.zawww.autospec.com

structural repairs and strengthening at NATALsPRUIT hOsPITAL

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The developers of the new Soweto Theatre in Jabulani needed a company to install thermally-insulated walling panels in the new building. Ikhaya Futurehouse, specialists in the latest environmentally-friendly building systems, answered their call and was up to the challenge.

“This project encompasses the use of the Futurehouse wall-panel system, which comprises high-tensile galvanised-steel mesh and encasing

lightweight-expanded polystyrene. The system is used for the cladding of internal and external wall facades of the curved east and west wings of the building,” says Craig Paton-Ash of Ikhaya Futurehouse Systems.

“The walls of the building are curved both horizontally and vertically and are up to 9m high in places. Futurehouse panels have been fixed to a curved-steel support framework, and smooth-plastered on the visible sides of the panels. On the opposing side, the panels are rough-plastered, as they will be hidden by a decorative cladding,” says Paton-Ash. Take extra space

out. “Apart from the cost-efficiency of this system, another benefit of using Futurehouse panels is the speed with which the product is installed,” he says.

Paton-Ash says the high-strength Futurehouse panels have excellent thermal and sound insulation properties. “The Futurehouse system, with an expanded polystyrene core that absorbs sound and reinforced plaster that reflects noise, prevents sound transference into and out of the building.”

He says an important advantage of this lightweight system is that the walls have the feel and appearance of concrete or plastered brick structures. “The panels will provide weather and moisture penetration protection for the theatre, as well as a two-hour fire rating for the stairwells. Round and rectangular window openings have been cut into the panels according to exact size specifications.”

According to him, electrical and plumbing conducting is run behind the wire mesh of the panels without any need to angle grind. “The system is then finished with 20-25mm of conventional plaster, which has been spray-applied to speed up the building process.”

He is of the opinion that the Ikhaya Futurehouse walling system has been designed to improve building comfort, enhance structural performance and to significantly reduce energy required for heating and cooling in commercial, industrial, institutional and residential buildings.

Paton-Ash believes the company is in line with black economic empowerment (BEE) standards. “Local residents from the Soweto community has been recruited and after attending a short training programme for this system, the team is managing very well, despite the building complexity,” he says.

Ikhaya Futurehouse Systems Telephone: (012) 653 0095E-mail: info@futurehouse.co.za Website: www.futurehouse.co.za

COMPANy NOT AfRAID TO TAKE ON A ChALLENGE

A walling system, which comprises lightweight-expanded polystyrene systems walling panels, with excellent thermal and sound insulation, has been successfully installed at the new Soweto Theatre.

eXTeRIoR FInIshes

101vol 12.6Solar Shading Industries is the sole Southern Africa distributers of Colt Solar Shading Systems Technology and Products

GautenGTel: +27 11 608 4640 • Fax: +27 11 608 4643

Chris Edwards: 082 855 9776Email: chrise@robventind.co.za

Eric Whelan: 082 452 2257Email: ericw@robventind.co.za

Kwa Zulu natalTel: +27 31 307 4640Fax: +27 31 304 6640

Ron Burns: 082 936 0562Email: ronb@robventind.co.za

Fixed Solar Shading Systems • Fixed & Controllable Solar Shading • acoustic louvres

Glass Solar Shading Systems • Screening louvres, Rain Defence & Performance louvres

TeCh savvY

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In responding to the government’s challenge for quality, inexpensive and maintenance-free clay bricks, Corobrik’s CoroJem face bricks are fast becoming a product of choice for the government-subsidy affordable housing industry.

“We have to date secured orders for over 40 million CoroJem face bricks to build more than 11 000 affordable homes in the Free

State and Northern Cape, and further specifications are being negotiated,” says Dirk Meyer, managing director or Corobrik.

“Against these orders we have completed supplies of over 5 million face bricks to the Free State projects and next month we are scheduled to commence delivery to projects at Hartebeesfontein, 30km from Klerksdorp in North West. It’s pleasing to see this housing segment embracing the sustainable value CoroJem clay face bricks bring to home owners and communities,” he says.

According to Meyer, the Department of Human Settlements enthusiastically approved CoroJem as a preferred option for affordable houses.

“Having already noted the performance of our CoroJem Corngold bricks for 448 units at Tigane Township in Klerksdorp and a further 1 500 units at Ganspan in the Northern Cape, they had good reason to approve our products. The competitive price coupled with the top quality of CoroJem clay face brick makes it a winner in the affordable housing segment.”

Meyer says investigations undertaken by WSP Green by Design show that a brick building is a very viable way forward for house construction in South Africa. While double-skin clay brick construction is the clearly the “optimal” way forward, CoroJem fits the bill in this competitive segment as an excellent performer with all the functionality of a face brick.

The well-respected performance attributes of clay bricks are underpinning the demand. “Double-skin walling runs out

approximately 20% more expensive in the wall than CoroJems through the wall format. This translates into a substantial saving on mortar and labour, reducing the overall costs,” says Meyer.

“Life-cycle costs are also very low consequent to the maintenance-free qualities of CoroJem and the well-recognised thermal performance attributes of clay bricks to slow the transfer of heat through the walls – supporting indoor thermal comfort during the long hot summer days and low cooling-fan energy usage. The incombustibility and hence fire-resistant qualities of CoroJem provides an added peace-of-mind benefit for persons living in close proximity,” Meyer says.

He concludes: “We are constantly looking for ways to support sustainable development and CoroJem is proving to be the best-fit solution for this segment, meeting the important quality, affordability and sustainability criteria and people’s aspirations to live in ‘proper’ houses, at the same time.”

Corobrik Tel: 031 560 3111Fax: 031 565 1532Website: www.corobrik.comwww.autospec.com

fACE BRICKs

for affordable housing

Corobrik CoroJem is proving to be the best-fit solution for affordable houses.

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CONfIRMATION Of $1, 2-BILLION TOWER IN jEDDAhAs suggested over the past few months, super-tall building experts Adrian Smith and Gordon Gill are going to complete the design for a new tower to anchor the proposed $20-billion Kingdom City master-planning project in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.

Internet rumours that they were working on a mile-high tower were carefully silenced by the firm, yet they did not deny involvement in the Kingdom Tower scheme.

His Royal Highness, Prince Alwaleed Bin Talal Bin Abdulaziz Alsaud, nephew of Saudi Arabia’s King Abdullah and chairman of the Kingdom Holding Company, officially announced Smith and Gill as the design architects in August this year.

The completed Kingdom Tower will soar at over 1 000m (at least 173m higher than the Burj Khalifa, which is currently the tallest building in the world) with a total construction area of 530 000m2 This structure is being flaunted as a new marker of Jeddah’s importance as a gateway to the city of Mecca and has been directly inspired by the folded fronds of a young desert plant.

Smith says: “With its slender, subtly asymmetrical massing, the tower evokes a bundle of leaves shooting up from the ground, a burst of new life that heralds more growth all around it.” Gill adds: “The way the leaves sprout upward from the ground as a single form and then start separating from each other at the top is in analogy of the new growth fused with technology.” According to them, the needle is also designed to symbolise the city of Jeddah as an economic power and cultural leader, with a focus on the strength and creative vision of its people.

For more information, visit www.worldarchitecturenews.com

CONsTRUCTION INDUsTRy LOOKs AT AfRICA fOR GROWTh

The South African construction industry was one of the hardest hit industries during the recession with a large number of companies going into liquidation. In the 18 months of recovery since 2010, Coface South Africa as a credit insurer has seen very little positive movement in the industry. Three elements that make up the construction industry, namely government, corporate and domestic spending, have been plagued by negative factors.Government-led spending created a construction boom in 2009 and early 2010. But the majority of these infrastructure projects have now been completed. The greatest concern is a slowdown in the tender processes for new infrastructure projects such as schools, hospitals and housing with some tender processes being delayed by up to six months. The corporate and domestic construction sectors are finding access to credit and lower spending a continued hindrance to the development of new building projects. To counteract the weak local market, companies are looking at Africa to export their services and expertise. With the positioning of South Africa as a springboard into Africa, Coface South Africa is seeing some of the larger construction companies supplying construction skills into Africa for infrastructure development projects to facilitate trade with large foreign investors such as China.

“What is interesting is the manner in which these companies are circumventing the instability of certain African countries’ inherent business environment,” says Brian Peterson, an industry analyst for Coface South Africa.

Peterson explains that Coface rates the business risk environment of over 170 countries worldwide. The ratings are based on factors such as the availability of reliable financial information, the country’s judicial and legal systems covering debt collection, and business infrastructure such as the banking system.

The risk ratings range from A1 to D with A1 being a low-risk country and D a high-risk country. South Africa is only one of two countries in Africa with the most stable A3 business rating, the other being Mauritius.

South African construction companies have recognised the potential pitfalls of doing business in Africa and instead of relying on the internal systems of some of these high-risk African countries, foreign direct investors are buying the skills and project management from South African construction companies and implementing projects in countries such as Mozambique, Zimbabwe, Malawi and Zambia, who are then paying the South African companies directly.

This is ensuring the stability of trade, ensuring that South African construction companies are able to control the funding of projects while African countries benefit from improved infrastructure. Without this process and the involvement of the South African construction sector, infrastructure development in Africa might not have advanced to the point it has.

Coface South AfricaTel: (011) 208 2517Fax: (011) 208 2601E-mail: natasha_hardy@cofaceza.com Website: www.cofaceza.com

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Tel: 012 807 7012: e-mail: dsoons@mweb.co.za:

Fax to e-mail: 086 601 7842

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sEMINARs ON CRB WALLs sChEDULED fOR 2011 The Concrete Manufacturers Association (CMA) is holding two, half-day afternoon seminars for engineers and contractors on the design, construction and reinforcing of concrete retaining block (CRB) walls this year.

The first seminar took place on 17 August in Durban and the second will take place on 12 October in Cape Town. Since the first seminars were held in 2006, they have proved to be a huge success. The seminars are presented by well-known CRB experts such as Alan Parrock, Garth James, Marco Pauselli, Linda Dobie and Silvio Ferraris.

Parrock is a partner at leading geotechnical engineering consultants, ARQ Consulting. James is a geologist and marketing director at Kaytech, a leading supplier of geosynthetic reinforcing material. Pauselli is a consulting engineer specializing in slope stability and retaining walls. Dobie is the managing director of Friction Retaining System (FRS), a specialist CRB walling contractor. Besides his CMA presidency role, Ferraris is the CEO of a CRB block manufacturer, ReMaCon. He also designs retaining-block wall structures.

Hamish Laing, CMA director, says the seminars will also focus on proper procedures to follow when building a wall that begins with a detailed bill of quantities. “Poorly constructed walls do collapse, endangering people and causing damage to property worth millions of rands.”

According to Laing, there are several factors that can trigger the collapse of a poorly constructed CRB wall. “Many walls are inadequately specified from the outset. This leads to poor construction and corner cutting. All it takes is one bout of unusually heavy rainfall, or soft soaking rain for several days in a row, to cause wall failure,” says Laing.

Silvio Ferraris, CMA president and vice-president of the CMA’s CRB division, says the role of geofabrics in the successful design and construction of CRB walls is being covered extensively during the seminars. “Substantial improvements have been made to geofabrics,” he says. “Current materials are much stronger than in the past, when certain fabrics were prone to stretching and creep. This is why wall design slopes and heights were restricted.”

According to Ferraris, the result of this is that CRB walls are getting much steeper. “CRB walls are built at angles that would have been considered off-limits 15 years ago.” He says geofabrics need to be understood and correctly specified especially with walls that are near vertical. “One wants to avoid over-stressing the fabric or else there is a danger that the wall could go beyond 90º,” advises Ferraris.

The seminars are registered with the South African Institution of Civil Engineering and participants will qualify for 0,5 CPD points. There is a nominal charge of R200 and anyone wishing to attend can register on the web via www.scereg.co.za/CMA/reg.htm.

Concrete Manufacturers AssociationTel: 011 805 6742Fax: 086 524 9216 E-mail: main.cma@gmail.com • www.autospec.com

GLAzED ChEMIsTRy BUILDING Written by Dave Soons

Oxford University, one of the world’s most prestigious educational institutions, is getting a new £170m (almost R1,870-million) chemistry laboratory complex designed by Australian architects Francis-Jones Morehen Thorp (FJMT). The ambitious designs gained planning permission last week following a unanimous vote from the Oxford City Council’s West Area Planning Committee.

In keeping with the multitude of traditional heritage buildings in the city (a large number of which are used by the university), FJMT’s design incorporates a complex facade system comprised of automated-shaped timber louvres set within a highly transparent glazed and ventilated cavity.

The main chemistry research laboratory will be connected to the new Chemistry Oxford building through an underground channel or “street”, which will be light-filled and designed to encourage inter-building communication and collaboration.

Taking inspiration from the majority of Oxford University’s existing buildings, Chemistry Oxford will incorporate a number of landscaped open spaces including a “Chemistry Green” for social events and relaxation purposes. On a similar plane, FJMT’s designs aim to reach at least an excellent BREEAM rating, with hopes to gain a title of outstanding.

Walls & Roofs would like to give thanks and acknowledgement to www.worldarchitecturenews.com.

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EMERGING BUILDERs COMPLETE TRAINING

fURNACE CLOsED AfTER GAs fAILUREWritten by Nichelle Lemmer

According to an official statement form ArcelorMittal, a structural failure occurred in the gas-cleaning plant at the affected facility early in August, resulting in the dust catcher partially collapsing.

“The damage has rendered the blast furnace inoperable and repairs are expected to be completed at the end of September,” the company says. “Re-commissioning of the furnace will take an additional two weeks before returning to full production.”

In the statement, ArcelorMittal explains that the mills continued with production, using available stock, until the third week of August. “We are in the process of exploring options to augment the supply to meet the domestic customer requirements for this period.” There were no injuries as a result of this incident.

Shares of ArcelorMittal South Africa are down by more than 3%, making the firm the worst performer on the benchmark Top-40 index. The company is shutting down a furnace at its Newcastle plant for at least two months.

Walls & Roofs would like to give thanks and acknowledgement to ArcelorMittal for the information contributed to this article

On 30 July, the first student intake for the Gauteng Master Builders Association’s (GMBA) training course for newcomers to the building industry received their certificates.

Deon Landmann, the GMBA’s education, training and transformation officer, says demand for the training has been overwhelming. “Unfortunately, the structure of the tuition allows only for a limited number of candidates per course. However, we are planning to present further courses in the future and are in the process of registering the course with the Construction Education and Training Authority (CETA),” adds Landmann.

Subjects covered in the course were aimed at small, medium and micro enterprises. These subjects included running a small business, finding and obtaining work, running an

efficient building project, staff management, and safety and industrial relations.

The successful students all reported that the training had already proved to be beneficial for their business. Nevertheless, the GMBA speakers at the “graduation” function urged them to continue their training endeavors and indicated that the association would consider expanding the scope of the training into a wider field in the future.

Colin de Kock, retired executive director of the GMBA, awarded the certificates along with Hennie Bester, president of the GMBA.

For more information, contact Deon Landmann on 011 805 6611 or send an e-mail to deon@gmba.co.za.

erratUmIn the previous issue of Walls and Roofs, some printing gremlins crept in the Marley Roofing advertorial on pages 66 and 67, and the article contained several mistakes. We apologise for any inconvenience and potential embarrassment caused.

Kind RegardsWalls & Roofs Team

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CELEBRATING ICONIC BRAND sTATUs Written by Theresa van Tonder

Dulux’s reputation as a household name in decorative paints was recently confirmed when it was selected as the winner of the TGI Iconic Brands paint category and positioned among the top 14 overall brands in South Africa.

Every year in the TGI Icon Brands survey, consumers vote for the brands that have become symbols and contribute to the way users define their status and personalities. According to this survey, Dulux was voted as the top preferred paint brand.

“To be named as a TGI Iconic Brands is a great honour, and it is certainly good to know that we are among the best loved and the most used brands in South Africa. This title serves to affirm the quality and value we strive to bring to the public. We are truly proud of it,” says Johann Smidt, managing director of Dulux.

“The TGI Icon Brands survey is not a relative measure of liking and attractiveness, nor is it about perceptions. It is about brands consumers choose to use all the time,” explains the target group index client service director, Maria Petousis.

TGI is a national brand survey that measures the usage of 8 000 brands across 19 different categories. With 15 000 face-to-face interviews that are conducted in communities with a population size bigger than 8 000 people, this is the largest survey of its kind in South Africa.

The sales and marketing director, Prejay Lalla, says: “Dulux has

a strong and rich heritage among all South Africans and is firmly entrenched as a serious player in the South African market. We will continue to bring quality and value to the South African market through our continued sustainability and environmentally-friendly practices, as well as the Let’s Colour project, which aims to inject colour into communities and add colour to people’s lives.”

Dulux TradeTel: 011 861 1000E-mail: info@dulux.co.zaWebsite: www.duluxtrade.co.zawww.autospec.com

From left to right: Andrea Rademeyer, CEO of the Target Group Index (TGI), Belinda Godfrey from Edgars and Garry Rogers from Media 24.

From left to right: Andrea Rademeyer, CEO of the Target Group Index (TGI), Donnay Mouyis, Brand Manager Coca Cola and Garry Rogers from Media 24.

TGI 9 from left to right: Andrea Rademeyer, CEO of the Target Group Index (TGI), Trish Pillay, All Gold Brand Manager and Garry Rogers from Media 24.

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COMPANy sTAys ON TOP Of sAfETy MEAsUREs

Sika South Africa holds itself to the highest standards of environmental management and now complies with ISO 14001 regulations. The managing director of Sika South Africa, Paul Adams, says that achieving ISO ratings necessitates a continuous improvement in management systems.

In gaining ISO 14001, Sika demonstrates its total commitment to sustainability. “We are continually striving to source new and environmentally-friendly raw materials and are focussing on the elimination of harmful solvents in production.” Sika was the first construction chemical company in South Africa to achieve this in 2006, and is still the only construction chemical company to have this rating.

Adams says it does not help to only source a few products from third parties and then claim the company is “green”. He advises end-users and specifiers to visit manufacturing plants, like Sika, to make sure that the company is truly committed to sustainability. “Ask the company about disposal procedures and raw material sourcing.” He says many international companies are looking for companies that have the ISO 14001, as it gives them security in knowing that environmental standards are being considered and adhered to by the supplier.

rather Safe than SorrySika is pleased to announce yet another achievement. They are the first construction chemicals company in South Africa to be awarded the Occupational Health and Safety Certification: OHSAS 18001, in 2011.

OHSAS 18001 is an occupational health and safety assessment series for health and safety management systems. Intended to help organisations to control occupational health and safety risks in the workplace, it was developed in response to widespread demand for a recognised standard against which organisations can be certified and assessed.

According to Adams, the OHSAS 18001 sets the bar of standards high. “As an OHSAS 18001 company you have nowhere to hide. All incidents are reported and recorded.” He says that health and safety officers have been appointed at Sika. They continually monitor health and safety standards at the Sika premises. “No contractor may perform duties on our premises until they have been fully inducted, which ensures that all their equipment and employees complies with safety standards.” He says that their factory, administration and distribution staff are continuously upgraded on new legislation and updated on new improvements at third-party training centres.

Adams says that as Sika is the oldest and largest construction

chemical company worldwide, they can’t simply rely on being market leaders when it comes to existing and new technology. “Factors such as the environment and health and safety need to play a critical role in all of our lives.”

According to him, Sika strives to ensure that the full system approach, roof-to-floor is sustainable, offering systems from flooring, roofing, waterproofing, joint sealing and the latest in green admixture technology. As the largest polyuerathane producer worldwide, Sika eliminates isosianates from its Sikaflex ranges. He says all major suppliers in Europe are under pressure to implement drastic reductions in isosianates levels in their products. “Look out for the new i-Cure logo on the Sikaflex range, another first for Sika worldwide.”

appliCation and benefitS Sika chose to use the OHSAS specification in order to:

Establish an occupational health and safety• (OH&S) management system to eliminate or minimise risk to employees and other interested parties who may be exposed to risks associated with Sika’s activities. Implement, maintain and continually improve their OH&S •

management system. Assure that they conform to their OH&S policy. •

Demonstrate such conformance to their stakeholders.•

Additionally the ISO 14001 management system, which Sika also adheres to, comprises the following criteria:

iSo 14001 – environmental management SyStem Sika acquired the ISO 14001 in 2006. This environmental management system is a management tool enabling Sika to:

Identify and control the environmental impact of activities, •

products and/or services. Improve environmental performance continually. •

Implement a systematic approach to setting environmental •

objectives and targets, to achieve these and to demonstrate that they have been achieved.This has the effect of establishing a common reference for •

communicating about environmental management issues between Sika and its customers, regulators, the public and other stakeholders.

Sika South AfricaTel: 031 792 6500Email: headoffice@za.sika.comWebsite: www.sika.co.za www.autospec.com

OHSAS 18001 is an occupational health and safety assessment series for health and safety management systems.